UN Approves Bangladesh Election Plan, Establishes AI Governance Mechanisms

U.S. President Donald Trump is considering imposing "very serious" economic sanctions on Russia if it refuses to agree to a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, which has lasted over three years. Meanwhile, Russia launched drone attacks targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure across six regions, escalating tensions further. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed concerns about the seizure of frozen Russian assets, warning of systemic and potentially dangerous consequences. Additionally, 25 member countries of the Universal Postal Union have suspended postal shipments to the United States amid uncertainties regarding new U.S. customs clearance rules for imports under $800. These developments highlight the ongoing geopolitical and economic tensions involving the U.S., Russia, and European nations. Other global political updates include Bangladesh's preparations for its 13th National Parliamentary Election and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara's presidential candidacy filing for the October election.