News
Putin oversees Russia’s nuclear might during planned drill
Putin has overseen his country conducting its first nuclear drills, since the beginning of the war
Russia’s Vladimir Putin watched on from afar as his country launched the ballistic and cruise missiles fired from the Arctic towards Russia’s far-east.
Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s Defence Minister, spoke about the drills on national TV. He claims the exercises were an opportunity for the military to practise retaliation of an enemy strike.
During the broadcast Putin also made claims about Ukraine being a “testing ground for military biological experiments”.
When it comes to the recent drills, the Kremlin warned the west and therefore complied with the arms control treaty.
“Russia is complying with its arms control obligations and its transparency commitments to make these notifications.”
Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon spokesman
However, the drills come at a time of increasing tensions between Russia and western nations.
As the west monitors Russia’s nuclear posture closely, NATO gets set to run its own nuclear drills, dubbed ‘Steadfast Noon’ which will launch late October.
U.S. warning
The United States has consistently warned Russia against using nuclear force during the war in Ukraine.
Today, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken again reiterated the consequences for Russia if it uses a nuclear weapon.
“We’ve also communicated directly and very clearly to the Russians, President Putin about the consequences.”
antony blinken, u.s. secretary of state
Speaking exclusively on CNN, Russia’s Ambassador to the UK insists Russia is “not going to use nukes” in the war.
India condemn’s nuclear
Amid heightened tensions in Ukraine, the threat of resorting to nuclear has become a core concern for the war ahead.
As Ukrainian troops continue to make advances on the frontline, there are fears Putin will use nuclear force when backed into a corner.
Although, Russia has conducted planned nuclear drills, the country’s nuclear posture has not changed in any way.
During a phone call, India’s Defence Minister warned his Russian counterpart against nuclear weapons.
“The nuclear option should not be resorted to.”
Rajnath singh, india defence minister
A statement released by the Defence Minister’s office confirmed Rajnath Singh “reiterated India’s position on the need to pursue the path of dialogue and diplomacy for an early resolution of the conflict. He pointed out that the nuclear option should not be resorted to by any side as the prospect of the usage of nuclear or radiological weapons goes against the basic tenets of humanity.”
Dirty bomb allegations
Russia has made claims that Ukraine is planning to use a so-called “dirty bomb,” comprising of explosives and Uranium.
Claims Ukraine and the west have strongly denied and condemned. Now, many western nations are concerned Russia is going to use this allegation as a pretext to escalate the war.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg labelled the claims as “transparently false.”
“Russia now falsely claims Ukraine is preparing to use a radiological dirty bomb on its own territory. NATO allies reject this transparently false allegation. Russia often accuses others of what they intend to do themselves. We have seen this pattern before from Syria to Ukraine. Russia must not use false pretext for further escalation.”
Jens stoltenberg, nato secretary general
Stoltenberg has warned Putin against using a nuclear weapon, explaining that the use of nuclear would change the front of the war for everyone, including Russia.
“President Putin of Russia knows that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. And they also know that there will be severe consequences.
So far, we have not seen any changes in Russia’s nuclear posture, but of course we monitor very closely, and we are vigilant and ready to act if necessary. The most important thing now is to convey a message to Russia that they of course should not use a nuclear weapon in Ukraine.”
Jens stoltenberg, nato secretary general
However, despite global condemnation and denial, Russia still insists Ukraine is going to use a “dirty bomb.”
Speaking on CNN, Russia’s Ambassador to the UK also doubled down on claims of Ukraine using a ‘dirty bomb’ saying Russia ‘has a feeling.’
China slaps 55% tariff on Australian beef as trade and geopolitical tensions rise
China has imposed a 55% tariff on Australian beef imports that exceed quota limits, a move that threatens more than $1 billion in annual trade and has reignited tensions between Canberra and Beijing. The restrictions, effective from January 1 for three years, cap Australia’s beef quota at 205,000 tonnes—below the volume China imported in 2024—prompting industry claims the decision undermines the spirit of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement.
Calm fears
Beef producers warn the impact could be severe, with exports to China potentially falling by as much as one-third compared to 2025 levels. Industry groups say the move advantages rival exporters, with Brazil and Argentina receiving far larger quotas, raising concerns Australia could permanently lose market share in a key global market. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has sought to calm fears, saying Australia is not being singled out and describing the beef sector as the strongest it has ever been.
The tariff decision comes against the backdrop of growing geopolitical strain, days after Australia criticised China’s “Justice Mission 2025” military drills near Taiwan as destabilising. Opposition figures are urging the government to leverage diplomatic ties with President Xi Jinping to ensure Australia is not swept up in broader trade retaliation, as industry calls mount for urgent talks to stabilise relations.
Where to switch off, reset and travel well for a week
For executives in their 40s, travel has shifted. It is less about ticking off sights and more about space, comfort and coming back sharper than when you left.
In 2026, the most appealing one-week holidays are destinations that combine calm, quality and a sense of being ahead of the curve.
For executives, switching off from work is essential, but true rest comes from being gently engaged rather than completely idle.
The most rewarding breaks offer just enough stimulation, culture, nature or conversation, to quiet the mind without replacing one form of busyness with another.
Here are five global locations quietly rising to the top of travel wish lists.
East Coast Barbados
Barbados has long been associated with polished beach holidays, but the east coast offers something different.
Wild Atlantic surf, boutique retreats and fewer crowds create a slower rhythm that suits travellers who want proper rest without sacrificing style.
Days are spent between long coastal walks, ocean-facing spas and unhurried dinners, with just enough local culture to keep things interesting.
Barbados: Book a holiday package (flights + hotel) to Barbados here.
Phu Quoc
Vietnam’s largest island is emerging as a refined alternative to more established Asian beach destinations.
Phu Quoc blends thoughtful luxury with a grounded, local feel. Resorts are discreet rather than flashy, wellness is taken seriously, and the pace encourages doing very little very well.
It is an easy week of warm water swims, exceptional food and genuine mental downtime.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam: Find holiday packages and deals for Phu Quoc here.
Peloponnese
For travellers who want culture without crowds, the Peloponnese is becoming Greece’s most compelling region.
Ancient ruins sit alongside olive groves, quiet beaches and wellness-focused resorts designed for long lunches and early nights.
It offers the Mediterranean experience executives love, without the intensity of Santorini or Mykonos.
Peloponnese, Greece: Browse and book Peloponnese holiday packages with flights and hotels here.
The Red Sea
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast is one of the most ambitious luxury travel projects in the world.
Opening progressively through 2025 and 2026, it promises adults-focused resorts built around sustainability, privacy and high-end wellness.
For those seeking something genuinely new, this is a destination that feels exclusive, restorative and future-facing.
Red Sea Coast (gateway for Red Sea resorts): Book a Red Sea Coast holiday package (flight + hotel) here.
Margaret River
Margaret River continues to refine its appeal for travellers who value space and quality. World-class wineries, dramatic coastline and understated luxury accommodation make it ideal for a reset without jet lag.
It is a reminder that a great week away does not need excess. It needs good food, good wine and room to breathe.
In 2026, the best holidays for executives are not about escape in the dramatic sense. They are about intention. A change of pace, fewer decisions, and environments designed to help you slow down properly. These destinations understand that luxury is not about doing more, but about feeling better when you return.
Margaret River, Western Australia: Find Margaret River holiday packages (accommodation + flight) here.
News
Iran’s currency collapse sparks mass protests as inflation spirals
Iran president engages protesters amid economic crisis as currency tumbles and inflation surges
Iran’s president engages protesters amid economic crisis as currency tumbles and inflation surges
– Iranian President Pezeshkian urged action to meet protesters’ demands amid economic crisis and currency devaluation.
– Protests intensified with shop closures in Tehran, following significant inflation and political unrest after Mahsa Amini’s death.
Iran is grappling with its most severe economic crisis in years. Mass protests erupted across Tehran following the dramatic collapse of the national currency. The rial plunged to 1.42 million against the U.S. dollar over the weekend, briefly recovering to 1.38 million. This marks a loss of more than two-thirds of its value since 2022.
Annual inflation soared to 42.2 percent in December, with food prices up 72 percent year-on-year. Many Iranians are struggling to make ends meet, fueling public anger and unrest.
In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian ordered his government to engage directly with protest representatives. Calling the demonstrations “legitimate,” he emphasized the need for reforms in the monetary and banking sectors. Officials announced a dialogue framework to hear the voices of demonstrators.
The unrest coincided with the resignation of Central Bank Governor Mohammad Reza Farzin. Former Economy Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati is set to replace him, signaling possible shifts in economic policy.
Tehran’s commercial districts were paralyzed as shopkeepers in the Grand Bazaar and major streets closed businesses in solidarity. Videos on social media showed crowds chanting slogans as security forces used tear gas to disperse them.
International pressure is also rising. U.S. officials warned they would support action against Iran if the country resumes nuclear or missile development, following recent airstrikes on Iranian facilities.
The World Bank forecasts Iran’s GDP will contract 1.7 percent in 2025 and 2.8 percent in 2026, deepening economic concerns. How the government responds to these protests and reforms its economy may shape the country’s stability in the months ahead.
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