Chinese warships monitored east of Sydney by ADF

Three Chinese warships near Sydney monitored by Australian Defence Force amid rising tensions and strategic implications.

Published

1 year ago

February 20, 2025

ticker NEWS

Three Chinese warships near Sydney monitored by Australian Defence Force amid rising tensions and strategic implications.

In Short

Three Chinese navy ships have been spotted near Sydney, and the Australian Defence Force is monitoring them. Experts believe this signals China’s intention to strengthen its military presence in the region, prompting calls for increased Australian defence spending.

The Australian Defence Force has stated that these vessels are being monitored as part of routine procedures.

The flotilla includes the Jiangkai-class frigate Hengyang, the Renhai-class Cruiser Zunyi, and the Fuchi-class replenishment vessel Weishanhu.

These ships were first identified near the northeast of Australia last week and have continued their movement down the coast.

According to a Defence Department spokesperson, the ADF routinely oversees all maritime traffic within Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

Military presence

Experts believe this deployment signals an intention by China to enhance its military presence near Australia.

Professor Rory Medcalf, head of the ANU National Security College, noted that this could lead to further military engagements in the region.

He explained the necessity for Australia to increase defence spending to counteract the potential establishment of a Chinese military base in the Pacific.

The sighting of these ships occurs during a visit by Admiral Samuel Paparo, commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, who is in discussions with Australian leaders.

Recent tensions have also emerged from a dangerous encounter involving a Chinese jet and an Australian military aircraft in the South China Sea.

Man shot dead after breaching security at Mar a Lago

Man in 20s dies after breaching Mar-a-Lago, armed; Secret Service opened fire, citing no immediate danger inside.

Published

13 hours ago

February 23, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Man in 20s dies after breaching Mar-a-Lago, armed; Secret Service opened fire, citing no immediate danger inside.

A man in his early 20s has been shot and killed after breaching the secure perimeter at President Trump’s Mar a Lago residence in Florida, according to the Secret Service. Officials say the president and first lady Melania Trump were in Washington DC at the time of the incident.

Authorities report the man was armed with a shotgun and a petrol canister when he approached the north gate. He was confronted by a sheriff’s deputy and two Secret Service agents who ordered him to drop the items before the situation rapidly escalated.

After putting down the petrol can, the man allegedly pointed the shotgun at officers, who then opened fire. Law enforcement says there was no immediate danger to anyone inside the property.

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News

Iran signals nuclear concessions as U.S. talks intensify

Iran may concede on its nuclear program for US recognition and sanctions relief, considering uranium exports and oil sector investments.

Published

13 hours ago

February 23, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Iran may concede on its nuclear program for US recognition and sanctions relief, considering uranium exports and oil sector investments.

Iran is signalling it’s prepared to make concessions on its nuclear programme in exchange for U.S. recognition and sanctions relief, as fresh talks between Iran and the United States reveal deep divisions but renewed diplomatic momentum.

Tehran is reportedly considering sending its highly enriched uranium abroad and even forming a regional enrichment consortium to keep negotiations alive and avoid military escalation. Officials say an interim agreement could still be within reach despite the sticking points.

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News

UK police seek former aides’ insights on Prince Andrew

UK police contact ex-protection officers of Prince Andrew amid misconduct investigation linked to Jeffrey Epstein allegations

Published

3 days ago

February 21, 2026

Ahron Young

UK police contact ex-protection officers of Prince Andrew amid misconduct investigation linked to Jeffrey Epstein allegations

In Short:
– Police seek former protection officers of Prince Andrew for info on alleged Epstein-related offences.
– Authorities consider removing Mountbatten-Windsor from royal succession after investigation conclusions.

British police are reaching out to former protection officers of Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor following his recent arrest related to allegations of misconduct in a public office.

The police have urged anyone with information about potential sex offences connected to Jeffrey Epstein to come forward.Authorities are considering legislative measures to remove Mountbatten-Windsor from the royal succession line once the investigation concludes. Any changes would require consultation with other realms where King Charles is head of state.

The recent allegations stem from claims that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential government documents with Epstein during his time as a trade envoy. The London Metropolitan Police is now identifying former officers who may assist in the ongoing investigation and has encouraged them to share any pertinent information.

Mountbatten-Windsor has denied wrongdoing in the Epstein matter.

In 2022, he settled a civil lawsuit filed in the U.S. by Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual abuse. Reports indicated he paid her approximately £12 million, a claim he denies.

Police Investigation

London authorities are reassessing previous decisions not to pursue criminal investigations related to Epstein’s activities.

Recent document releases from the U.S. government have prompted police to explore allegations of human trafficking involving Epstein at UK airports.

Police have been actively searching Mountbatten-Windsor’s residences as part of their investigation. His arrest marks an unprecedented event in modern royal history, raising significant public interest and concern in various countries.