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Russia has accused the UK of deliberately provoking a potential nuclear conflict, warning that British actions could escalate into a third world war. The stark message came as Moscow launched its most extensive naval exercises of the year, with the nuclear-powered submarine Oryol carrying out simulated missile strikes on mock Western targets. Nikolai Patrushev, a key aide to President Vladimir Putin and former chief of Russia's Security Council, claimed Britain and Ukraine were plotting “sophisticated provocations” in the Baltic Sea. One alleged plan involved faking a Russian torpedo strike on a U.S. Navy ship using Soviet-era weaponry allegedly transferred from Ukraine to the UK. Another scenario cited by Patrushev involved the staged discovery of Russian-made mines in international waters. Patrushev accused Britain of trying to fuel tensions between Russia and the U.S. and derail any prospects of diplomacy between Moscow and Washington. “This is an effort to push the two leading nuclear powers into direct confrontation,” he claimed. He issued a chilling reminder of Russia’s nuclear readiness, warning that Russian submarines carrying ballistic missiles were conducting constant patrols and were fully capable of launching strikes if provoked. "Our submarines are prepared to cool any hot heads," he said, suggesting NATO's military maneuvers resembled rehearsals for a full-scale assault on Russia. Russia’s “July Storm” naval drills, currently underway, involve over 150 warships, 120 aircraft, and 15,000 personnel. Exercises span across the Arctic, Pacific, Baltic, and Caspian seas. In one scenario, Russia’s Northern Fleet repelled an aerial assault in the Barents Sea, while cruise missiles were launched from the Pacific Fleet into the Sea of Japan. Amid this backdrop of military escalation, Russia’s eerie “Doomsday Radio,” which some associate with nuclear readiness alerts, transmitted cryptic messages containing words like “Himalayan” and “Kommunike,” further heightening unease. On the Ukrainian front, Kyiv launched a series of significant strikes deep into Russian territory. HIMARS rockets targeted what appeared to be a Russian military command post in occupied Donetsk, producing massive plumes of smoke. Ukrainian drones also struck several critical Russian sites. A fire broke out at the Tambov Gunpowder Plant, a key supplier for Russia’s military, reportedly caused by drone attacks. Similarly, the Azot chemical plant in Nevinnomyssk—vital for artillery production—was targeted during a wave of nearly 40 drone strikes in the Stavropol region. In the Krasnodar region, drone attacks disrupted operations at Sochi Airport, Russia’s top Black Sea resort. Dozens of flights were delayed as Ukraine also hit rail lines critical for transporting troops and munitions. In one strike, a passenger train at Timashevsk Station was damaged, injuring two people. Rail infrastructure in Russia’s Rostov region was also affected, delaying over 20 passenger trains. Airports across southern Russia, including in Grozny, Vladikavkaz, Magas, and Tambov, were forced to suspend operations due to ongoing drone threats. Meanwhile, Russian forces continued their bombardment of Ukrainian cities. In Kherson, missile strikes caused extensive damage and fires. The previous day, two civilians were killed and at least 40 injured in a deadly missile attack on Kharkiv—Ukraine’s second-largest city—an act President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned as "senseless violence." Amid these developments, speculation is growing in Moscow about Putin’s potential successor. Patrushev is said to be quietly positioning his son, Dmitry—currently a deputy prime minister—as a future presidential candidate. The tensions mark a dangerous chapter in East-West relations, with the Kremlin asserting that its nuclear capabilities remain a cornerstone of its defense. “Russia does not seek conflict,” said Patrushev, “but any attempts to challenge our readiness will be met with swift and decisive force.” Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-07-25

Electrolux is revolutionizing home living with appliances that blend advanced technology and sustainability. Designed with recycled materials, Electrolux products help reduce environmental impact while making everyday tasks easier and more efficient. Whether you're aiming to cut down on energy consumption or looking to enhance the comfort of your home, their eco-friendly appliances allow you to save more and live greener without sacrificing convenience or style. Electrolux: Paving the Way for a Greener Future With over 100 years of expertise, Electrolux has been shaping the future of sustainable living by reinventing care and well-being for millions of people. As part of its commitment to sustainability, the brand continues to lead the way in creating energy-efficient appliances that are designed to meet the growing demands of modern homes. Popular global brands under Electrolux include AEG and Frigidaire. Electrolux’s dedication to sustainability is evident in its commitment to using more recycled materials. The company aims to use 35% recycled plastic and steel by 2030, almost doubling the amount previously used. Smart Technology Meets Sustainability Electrolux is at the forefront of combining smart technology with sustainability. Their innovative products, such as IntelliQuick and Steamify, use artificial intelligence to optimize cooking modes, ensuring healthier and tastier meals while saving energy. Their connected appliances learn from your habits, like their vacuum cleaners that automatically adjust power usage, making them more energy-efficient in the long term. As an example, Electrolux’s refrigerators are perfect for consumers who want to maintain food freshness while reducing energy consumption. These AI-powered refrigerators adjust cooling and defrost cycles automatically to save energy. Key features include the ExtraChill drawer for deli meats, TasteLock and TasteSealFlex compartments that control humidity, and TwinTech Cooling to preserve freshness with separate cooling zones. Made with recycled materials, these refrigerators combine high performance with sustainability, proof that eco-friendly living and smart technology can work together. Circular Design Philosophy at Electrolux Electrolux leads the way in circular design by focusing on smart product design, repair services, and reducing waste in manufacturing. In their floorcare and aircare products, Electrolux uses recycled materials and eliminates harmful paints, which reduces chemical use while showcasing the beauty of recycled components. Their manufacturing facilities in Asia have reached 100% zero waste to landfill, ensuring that less than 1% of waste ends up in landfills. Sustainability Meets Power and Savings Electrolux’s appliances provide powerful performance while offering substantial savings on energy bills. These energy-efficient models are ideal for homeowners looking to reduce their environmental footprint while enjoying cutting-edge home solutions. By using Electrolux products, you not only contribute to a greener future but also reduce long-term costs, making it an investment that pays off both for the planet and your pocket. Electrolux has earned global recognition for its sustainability efforts. The company has been awarded the prestigious EcoVadis Gold rating, placing it in the top 5% of over 70,000 companies worldwide for its strong environmental, social, and ethical practices. Additionally, the global non-profit CDP awarded Electrolux an A-score for its climate risk management and transparent reporting. The Financial Times recognised Electrolux as a European Climate Leader for three consecutive years, ranking it 32nd out of 600 European companies. Electrolux also holds high energy-efficiency certifications, including the 10 Star Energy rating for its Heat Pump Dryer in the Australian and New Zealand markets. Sustainable Living Made Easy Electrolux appliances make it easy to live sustainably while saving on energy costs. With energy-efficient features and smart technology, these appliances allow you to reduce your environmental impact and live comfortably. No matter if you're upgrading to an eco-friendly refrigerator, investing in energy-saving dryers, or enhancing your home with sustainable appliances, Electrolux helps make your home greener and smarter. Ready for a greener future? Make your home smarter and more sustainable with Electrolux today. Explore their range of eco-friendly appliances and take a step towards a greener, more cost-efficient future. Sponsored - Original article published on The Thaiger

The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) for Essex, Roger Hirst, has formally urged the Home Secretary to shut down The Bell Hotel in Epping, citing its unsuitability as a facility for housing asylum seekers and the growing unrest it has sparked. In a public statement, Mr Hirst revealed he had written to Yvette Cooper, expressing concern over the use of hotels in the Epping Forest District for newly arrived asylum seekers. He emphasized that The Bell Hotel in particular has become a flashpoint, with its presence triggering significant community tension and draining police resources. The controversy intensified after a 38-year-old Ethiopian asylum seeker staying at the hotel, Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, was charged with multiple sexual offences shortly after arriving in the UK. He has denied all allegations. Following his arrest, a series of protests erupted on July 13, 17, and 20, with demonstrators clashing with police and disrupting local life. Hirst condemned the violence seen at some of the protests but maintained support for lawful demonstrations. “Peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right,” he said, “but violence and criminal damage are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.” To manage escalating tensions, Essex Police implemented stricter security measures, including metal barriers around the hotel, a dispersal order covering central Epping, and a temporary ban on face coverings under public order legislation. One protester was arrested under the face-covering ban. On July 24, Epping Forest District Council unanimously passed a motion urging the government to close both The Bell Hotel and The Phoenix Hotel, another site used for asylum housing. The debate was held amid heightened security and a planned march by demonstrators, which was disrupted by bad weather and a strong police presence. In addition to Epping, the four-star Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf also became the scene of recent anti-migrant protests. The Metropolitan Police deployed officers to manage potential unrest there following public outcry. Concerns over continued protests have grown, with police unions warning of wider unrest and stretched resources. Tiff Lynch, head of the Police Federation for England and Wales, said the Epping protests highlight deeper issues in public order policing, warning that forces are ill-prepared for sustained disorder. Ms Lynch stressed that such operations often pull officers away from community policing, and she called for better planning and resourcing to handle the growing number of demonstrations. Sixteen people were arrested during last week’s protest at The Bell Hotel. Eight officers were injured and several police vehicles damaged. Police say they are closely monitoring online activity to anticipate and manage future protests. The issue has drawn national political attention. Former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith described the mood across the UK as “the unhappiest I have seen in a long, long time,” attributing much of the discontent to immigration and asylum policies. Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds acknowledged the public’s frustration, saying the asylum system has put pressure on housing and that many of the concerns are valid. He noted that the number of hotels being used to accommodate asylum seekers has dropped from 400 to around 200. “We need to fix the core issue,” Reynolds said, “which is ensuring that people who should not be in the UK are returned, rather than relocating them to new forms of temporary accommodation.” Meanwhile, controversy continues over police handling of protests. Reform UK councillor Jaymey McIvor repeated claims made by Nigel Farage that Essex Police “bussed in” counter-protesters to a previous demonstration—an accusation the force firmly denied. A police spokesperson clarified that officers merely escorted vulnerable individuals away from the protest area for safety reasons and did not transport any counter-protesters to the event. Separately, Hampshire Constabulary was also accused of escorting left-wing activists to a migrant hotel protest in Aldershot earlier in the year. Police said their role was to ensure public safety and lawful demonstration, not to facilitate one side. With further demonstrations likely, and emotions running high, officials continue to weigh the balance between community safety, lawful protest, and the wider challenges of asylum accommodation in the UK. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily Mail 2025-07-25

British pensioners born in certain years are getting up to £2,797 more per year in State Pension payments compared to other retirees. The State Pension system in the UK is split into two different schemes, each of which is paid at a different rate. There is a basic and a new State Pension, and the one you qualify for is dependent on when you reach retirement age. Men born on or after April 6, 1951, and women born on or after April 6, 1953, are eligible to claim the new State Pension once they reach State Pension age, which is currently 66. Those who get this State Pension can get up to £230.25 per week in pension payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), which amounts to £11,973 per year – and a whopping £2,797.60 more annually than those who get the full basic State Pension. Read More: DWP gives State Pension triple lock update as major review launched Read More: DWP issues worrying State Pension age update with £800 warning The basic State Pension, by comparison, is only worth up to £176.45 per work if you get the full amount, which over a full year adds up to £9,175.40 in payments from the DWP. The State Pension rates increase at the start of every new tax year on April 6, with both pension schemes being uprated by 4.1% this year in line with the annual increase in the average weekly earnings index for May to July 2024, under the rules of the Triple Lock. But despite the rates going up, younger pensioners who qualify for the full new State Pension are still significantly better off compared to older generations on the basic scheme. FULL STORY

Phuket’s Bangtao-Pasak neighbourhood is already known for its polished villa compounds, upscale dining, and easy access to international schools and beaches. And it’s about to gain even more character with the arrival of 8 Atelier Residence. This upcoming condominium project, set for completion in mid-2027, brings a refined Indo-Chine design language to an area long dominated by modern tropical villas. With only 48 units on offer, it gives investors and future residents a chance to own a condo in Phuket that’s both architecturally distinct and commercially promising. 8 Atelier Residence overview Price From ≈5.6 million Baht Price per sqm Starting from ≈110,000 baht Early-bird discount 10% off for the first 10 units Location Pasak Soi 8, Choeng Thale, Phuket Unit types 1BR (51.8 sqm), 2BR (85.35 to 95 sqm), 3BR (122.7 sqm), Penthouse (276.31 sqm) Number of units 48 units total Construction status Starts Q3 2025 Delivery time Estimated in mid-2027 Interior design inspired by history The meeting room on the first floor. Image via 8 Atelier Residence When you think of a luxury condo in Phuket, tropical-style homes with open-plan layouts and modern finishes might be the first thing that comes to mind. 8 Atelier Residence has all of that, but with a lot more personality. The project is being brought to life by Glam Estate Group with the help of 88 My Space Design, a well-known interior design studio based in Phuket. Instead of following trends, they’ve chosen something more meaningful. The design is based on the Indo-Chine style, which mixes French colonial architecture and traditional Chinese and Vietnamese aesthetics. The result is a rich, timeless look that feels romantic yet contemporary. The Indo-Chine design can be found in virtually every part of the condo, including the penthouse’s bathrooms. Image via Dot Property Natural materials like teak wood and handwoven rattan feature prominently across the building, selected for both their visual warmth and cultural heritage. Moreover, symmetrical layouts and calming monochromatic tones create a sense of order and elegance. Every element has been chosen to encourage flow, ease of movement, and connection between generations. Boutique scale, built-in character Unlike condo-hotels or mass-market properties in Phuket, 8 Atelier Residence provides privacy with just 48 units. Image via Dot Property 8 Atelier Residence features only 48 units. Among these, there’s a single penthouse measuring 276 sqm, 12 one-bedroom units starting at 51 sqm, 30 two-bedroom layouts ranging up to 95 sqm, and 5 three-bedroom options. The smaller scale is part of the condo’s appeal. Unlike many larger developments in Phuket, 8 Atelier Residence offers a more curated, private living experience with a stronger sense of community. Although the building is low-rise, its location in an upscale, open neighbourhood surrounded by villas means practically all units enjoy scenic views, without being overshadowed by high-rise towers. Moreover, there’s a focus on long-term value and liveability. The well-rounded suite of amenities reflects that. A 45-metre swimming pool, full-size gymnasium, kids’ club, co-dining areas, and a rooftop garden are all included to serve residents who plan to stay for more than just the holidays. There’s also a co-working space available, with fast internet for digital nomads and remote workers. And in a rare move for Phuket, the building features designated pet-friendly floors, as well as 49 car parking spaces and 19 for motorcycles. Download the full brochure to explore floor plans, pricing, and interiors in more detail Investment appeal in Phuket’s top-growth zone If you view Phuket from an investment perspective, you’ve probably noticed Bangtao-Pasak has become one of the island’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Property prices in the area have seen steady growth, supported by strong demand from entrepreneurs, long-stay travellers, and families relocating from Europe and other parts of Asia. 8 Atelier Residence fits naturally into this picture. The boutique condo may not have direct beach access, but the convenience of its setting more than makes up for it. It’s located just minutes from Bangtao Beach and within walking distance to cafés, restaurants, wellness centres, and retail hotspots like Boat Avenue and Porto de Phuket. For investors, there’s solid value on offer. Units start at 5.6 million baht, with an average price of 110,000 baht per sqm, which is about 32% below the average of 144,000 baht per sqm for comparable condos around the area. In addition, early buyers benefit from a 10% discount on the first ten units, and foreign freehold quotas are available. The estimated gross rental yields in Phuket, including Bangtao and neighbouring Laguna, is estimated to be more than 8%. Combined with upcoming infrastructure improvements and the arrival of high-end branded residences, 8 Atelier Residence’s long-term potential for capital appreciation is strong. Schedule a private consultation with Dot Property While many developments in Phuket opt for minimalism or resort-inspired modernism, 8 Atelier Residence offers something more intimate and expressive. It’s rare to find a condo that feels as carefully designed as a high-end private villa. That rarity is part of its market strength. If you’re ready to take the next step, book a private consultation and see how 8 Atelier fits your lifestyle and investment goals. Sponsored

There’s no better way to experience Thailand than through its cuisine. In the rainy season, flavours bloom alongside the landscape, steam rises from market pots, the snap of chilli echoes through alleyways, and rain makes every bite more vivid. “I could happily eat Thai food every day for the rest of my life.” — Anthony Bourdain A few notes on Thai food culture In Thailand, food is an expression of affection, rhythm, and daily poetry. Instead of “how are you,” locals often greet each other with, “Gin khao reu yang?” (Have you eaten rice yet?) Meals are meant to be shared. Dishes are placed at the centre, and everyone dips in. Thai food is about balance: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and spicy all dancing in one bite. How to eat: A spoon in your right hand, fork in the left. Chopsticks are only used for some noodle dishes. Spice levels: If you’re unsure, ask for mai phet (not spicy), phet nit noy (a little spicy), or phet mak (very spicy). But be warned, Thai spice is not for the faint-hearted. And don’t be fooled by plastic stools, flickering fans, or open-air kitchens. In Thailand, the most unforgettable meals often come with their simplest moments, marked by unforgettable flavours. We are still in the midst of the rainy season in August, and if you are travelling around with automobiles, remember to keep safe and stay mindful of road conditions amid the downpours. Where should you go in August? Description Bangkok Bangkok’s rainy season brings steaming boat noodles, spicy stir-fries, and dim sum, especially around Victory Monument, Talad Phlu Market, and Yaowarat (Chinatown). Chiang Mai In Chiang Mai, enjoy Khao Soi (curry noodle soup), Sai Ua (grilled pork sausage), and stir-fried wild mushrooms, especially around Khao Soi Khun Yai and The Thanin Market. Isaan In Isaan, savour spicy Som Tam (papaya salad), grilled Gai Yang (chicken), and Jeow Bong (chilli dip), found at Khon Kaen Night Market and The Thung Sri Muang Night Market. Trang Trang offers Moo Yang (roast pork), dim sum, and Khanom Jeen (rice noodles with curry), especially at Trang Moo Yang, Ruan Thai Dim Sum, and the Trang City Municipality Market. Nakhon Si Thammarat Nakhon Si Thammarat offers Gaeng Som (sour curry), crab curry with betel leaves, and roti at Krua Nai Nang and local beachside restaurants. Phuket Phuket’s food highlights include Mee Hokkien Phuket (noodles with seafood), Moo Hong (braised pork belly), and Oh Tao (oyster omelette), enjoyed at Lock Tien Food Court and Mor Mu Dong. Bangkok: Broth, smoke, & midnight bites Bangkok is a feast at all hours, but in the rainy season it feels even more alive. Umbrellas bloom over sidewalk grills, noodle steam mingles with monsoon air, and rain taps on metal roofs while the wok sizzles. What to eat? Boat noodles (kuay teow rua): Deeply savoury, thick with beef or pork, hints of cinnamon and star anise in dark, meaty broth. Pad Kra Pao Moo: Stir-fried pork with holy basil, garlic, and fiery chillies, topped with a crispy fried egg. Dim sum: Steamed dumplings with shrimp or pork, dipped in sweet-sour sauces and chased with Thai tea. Where to go: Near Victory Monument (Samsen canal) for boat noodles at Boat Noodle Alley. Talad Phlu Market for wok-fired stir-fries. Yaowarat (Chinatown) for rainy-night dumpling runs. Chiang Mai: Curry noodles, mountain spice, and a sense of home Up north in Thailand, August brings mist, markets, and slow, golden light. Chiang Mai’s food is bold yet comforting, with herbal warmth that’s perfect for rainy mornings. What to eat? Khao Soi: Rich coconut curry noodle soup with a spicy undertone, topped with crispy noodles and pickled mustard. Sai Ua: Grilled pork sausage with lemongrass, kaffir lime, chilli, and turmeric. Stir-fried wild mushrooms: Umami-packed with local herbs, sometimes tossed in chilli or garlic oil. Where to go: Khao Soi Khun Yai for authentic local bowls. Huen Phen for traditional Lanna cuisine. The Thanin Market for early morning produce, spice pastes, and snacks. Isaan: Fire, funk & fermented soul In Thailand’s northeast, the food is bold, raw, and unforgettable. Sticky rice is the staple, grilled meat the norm, and som tam the national obsession. What to eat? Som Tam (papaya salad): Crunchy, sharp, spicy-sour-sweet, pounded in a mortar with lime, chilli, garlic, and fish sauce. Gai Yang: Grilled chicken marinated in coriander root, fish sauce, and pepper, cooked over charcoal. Jeow Bong: Smoky chilli dip with fermented fish and tamarind, perfect with rice or vegetables. Where to go: Khon Kaen Night Market for the local vendors. Thung Sri Muang Night Market in Ubon Ratchathani. Any roadside stall with a grill, a mortar, and a queue. Trang: Dim sum, rain, & southern breakfasts Trang wakes early, usually with a starving sensation pervading the region. Breakfast is a ritual of steam, spice, and sweetened Thai tea, especially lovely on a rainy morning. What to eat? Moo Yang: Caramelised five-spice roast pork with crackling skin. Dim sum trays: Shrimp dumplings, custard buns, pork siu mai. Khanom Jeen: Rice noodles served with curry and loads of fresh vegetables. Where to go: Trang Moo Yang for a mix of Thai and Chinese cuisine. Ruan Thai Dim Sum for a huge selection of dim sum. The Trang City Municipality Market for roti, rice dishes, and desserts. Nakhon Si Thammarat: Sour curries by the sea This southern gem is known for its bold, no-apology dishes. The rain rolls in from the sea, and the food rolls up with power and salivating pheromones. What to eat? Gaeng Som: Fiery turmeric-based sour curry with local fish. Crab curry with betel leaves: Creamy, briny, and layered with spice. Roti with curry or condensed milk: Crispy-edged and warm from the griddle. Where to go: Krua Nai Nang for soul-soothing curries. Small beach restaurants and roadside kitchens. Phuket: Rainy day seafood & Peranakan soul Phuket’s food tells stories of Chinese, Malay, and Thai ancestry. The rain makes everything richer: the curries darker, the noodles slicker, and the seafood sweeter. What to eat? Mee Hokkien Phuket: Thick egg noodles with squid, shrimp, and egg in savoury soy gravy. Moo Hong: Slow-braised pork belly in peppery sweet soy. Oh Tao: Oyster omelette with taro and bean sprouts on a sizzling pan. Where to go: Lock Tien Food Court, Old Town. Mor Mu Dong, under wooden roofs by the mangroves. Local markets during rain breaks. Sweet ending No Thai meal is complete without dessert. August is cool, wet, and slow, which is perfect for the treats that soothe and sweeten. Mango sticky rice (khao niew mamuang): An all-time favourite of locals and tourists alike, featuring ripe mango, creamy coconut rice, and salted coconut drizzle with a slight crunch. Thai iced tea (cha yen): Rich, sweet, and cold with a bright orange hue; perfect after a spicy meal. Tub Tim Grob (red rubies): Chewy water chestnuts in coconut milk, scented with jasmine Khanom Chan: Silky, pastel-layered jelly made with pandan. Fak Thong Gang Buad: Soft pumpkin pieces simmered in coconut milk, exuding warmth and nostalgia. You’ll find these in humble street markets, family-run cafés, and even served from a cart on a corner. Wherever you find them during your travels, they taste like Thailand in August: soft, sweet, and a little bit slowed down. A taste of the moon By late August, the lead-up to the Mooncake Festival begins in Thai-Chinese communities. Markets in Bangkok’s Yaowarat, Hat Yai, and Nakhon Sawan begin selling ornate, round mooncakes filled with lotus seed, salted egg yolk, red bean, or even durian. Visit traditional bakeries or pop-up stalls to try these seasonal treats, sweet symbols of reunion and good luck.

ed5c0a4c20487aa9c8c0f66db71f8736.mp4 Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have dramatically escalated.

Dozens Feared Dead After Plane Crash in Russia’s Far East Nearly 50 people, including several children, are presumed dead after a Soviet-era passenger aircraft crashed in Russia’s Amur region, according to state media citing local officials. The Antonov An-24, a twin-turboprop aircraft dating back to the 1970s, had been en route from Khabarovsk to Blagoveshchensk and Tynda when it disappeared from radar, the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations announced via Telegram. Search teams located the wreckage on a mountainside approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Tynda. No survivors were visible from the air, according to the Amur Center for Civil Defence and Fire Safety. Initial reports suggest the plane caught fire upon impact. The aircraft, manufactured in 1976 and originally designed in 1957, was operated by Angara Airlines, a regional Russian carrier based in Irkutsk, Siberia. Vasiliy Orlov, governor of the Amur region, stated that 49 individuals were aboard the flight, including 43 passengers (five of them children) and six crew members. Citing emergency officials, Russian news agency TASS reported that all those on board are believed to have died. The crash occurred just a few miles from Tynda Airport, shortly after the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing, though challenging due to the remote, roadless terrain of dense forest and swampland. Emergency crews have been deployed in full force, but the isolated crash site and difficult conditions are hampering ground access. Investigations into the cause of the crash are expected to follow once the site is secured. Developing Story as reported by CNN Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-07-24

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A national initiative is urgently required to combat pensioner poverty, as 2.8 million older citizens across the UK lack the financial means to maintain a basic standard of dignified living. Sir Keir Starmer has been informed of the crisis, which has left many elderly individuals reducing their food intake, limiting energy usage, and avoiding social interaction in an effort to manage escalating costs, according to a recent investigation. Despite the severity of the situation, the issue often remains overlooked, in part due to a persistent misconception that older generations enjoy financial security, while younger people face economic hardship. In response, MPs have called for a comprehensive UK-wide strategy to guarantee that all pensioners receive at least a minimum income sufficient for a dignified retirement. They also recommended appointing a dedicated advocate to represent pensioners’ interests and ensure their concerns are reflected in policymaking. These recommendations stem from a report by the House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee, chaired by Labour MP Debbie Abrahams. She stated: “After a lifetime of contribution, dignity in retirement is the least that should be expected. Yet far too many are being forced to make compromises that will accelerate physical and mental decline simply because they lack adequate income.” The report highlights that 1.9 million pensioners—approximately one in six—are living in relative poverty, and 2.8 million reside in households falling below the Minimum Income Standard, which defines the level of income necessary for a modest but acceptable standard of living. The committee also raised concerns about the rising state pension age, which reached 66 in 2020 and is scheduled to increase to 67 by 2028. Although intended to reflect increased life expectancy, this change disproportionately affects individuals in disadvantaged areas, where long-term ill health often makes it impossible to remain in employment until the new pension age. Many are therefore forced to depend on disability benefits instead. Additionally, around 700,000 households eligible for Pension Credit are not claiming it, further exacerbating the problem. Independent Age warned that public assumptions about widespread affluence among the elderly obscure the financial struggles faced by those on the lowest incomes. While MPs welcomed the Government’s decision to re-establish the Pensions Commission to examine the rise in pensioner poverty, they stressed that broader action is needed. They urged the Government to implement a cross-departmental strategy focused on promoting equitable health and wellbeing outcomes for the ageing population. In response, a Government spokesperson said: “Supporting pensioners remains a key priority. Thanks to our commitment to the triple lock, millions are set to benefit from an increase of up to £1,900 in their annual state pension by the end of this Parliament. “We have also launched the largest campaign to date to raise awareness and uptake of Pension Credit, resulting in nearly 60,000 additional households receiving the benefit—on average worth £4,300 per year. “However, we recognise the risk that future pensioners may face greater financial insecurity, which is why we are reactivating the Pension Commission to address the structural challenges that hinder saving for retirement.” Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-07-24

On request of OP CLOSED

Thousands of asylum seekers have reportedly used government-issued prepaid cards—intended to cover essential living costs such as food, clothing, and toiletries—for gambling purposes, including in betting shops, amusement arcades, and casinos. Data obtained through a Freedom of Information request by PoliticsHome reveals that up to 6,537 asylum seekers used their Aspen cards at gambling-related venues over the past year. These figures have prompted strong reactions, with critics calling for immediate action to prevent abuse of public funds. The Aspen card is provided to asylum seekers who are awaiting decisions on their immigration status. It is meant to cover essentials for those unable to legally work or claim standard benefits. Those living in self-catered accommodation receive £49.18 per week, intended for non-alcoholic beverages, clothing, over-the-counter medications, toiletries, and similar needs. Currently, around 80,000 individuals are in receipt of these cards while their asylum applications are processed. Many of them are housed in hotels paid for by taxpayers. The Home Office has confirmed that it is launching an investigation into how these cards are being used. A spokesperson stated, “The Home Office has a legal obligation to support asylum seekers, including any dependants, who would otherwise be destitute.” Although Aspen cards do not allow contactless or online payments and are intended for specific spending, they can be used to withdraw cash, including from ATMs inside gambling venues. While direct bets cannot be placed using the cards, the ability to access cash inside gaming establishments opens the door to misuse. Data shows an average of 125 card users per week accessing funds in gambling locations. At the peak, 227 individuals used their cards in this manner in a single week last November. Notably, 177 used them during Christmas week, despite many gambling venues being closed for the holidays. Critics argue that this misuse of taxpayer money is unacceptable. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp called the revelations “an insult to taxpayers,” adding, “These people have illegally entered this country from safe nations like France, and now they are using public funds for gambling. If they can afford to spend money this way, they clearly don’t need it for essentials.” Philp further criticized the government’s handling of border control, pointing to the increasing numbers of illegal Channel crossings and the growing reliance on hotel accommodation for asylum seekers. So far this year, nearly 20,000 people have arrived via small boats—a 50% increase over the same period last year. The issue has sparked local backlash as well, with demonstrations erupting in locations such as Canary Wharf, Epping, and Diss. Public frustration appears to be rising over both the volume of new arrivals and how government support is being managed. Paul Bristow, Conservative Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, suggested that this trend could be contributing to a local boom in gambling businesses. “Peterborough has seen a rapid rise in gambling establishments alongside an increase in men arriving on small boats,” he said. “It’s not uncommon to see these same individuals inside gaming centres over the weekend. There are serious questions to be asked.” Reform UK’s deputy leader Richard Tice also weighed in, saying the situation demonstrates a failure of the Home Office to monitor or control illegal activity among asylum seekers. “It’s a slap in the face to hardworking British citizens,” he said. Meanwhile, concerns have also emerged about asylum seekers working illegally, especially in the gig economy. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has ordered a crackdown, particularly targeting those using services such as Deliveroo or Just Eat. Reports have surfaced of delivery bikes being stationed outside asylum hotels, raising suspicions about unlawful employment. The government now plans to share the addresses of asylum-seeker accommodation with gig economy firms, instructing them to ensure they do not employ individuals from those locations. However, immigration expert Emma Brooksbank, from law firm Freeths, questioned the effectiveness of the measure. “It won’t be hard to avoid detection,” she warned. “These platforms are largely unregulated, and right-to-work penalties don't apply to them in the usual way. There’s little motivation for them to enforce compliance.” As scrutiny intensifies over both financial and employment activity among asylum seekers, the government faces increasing pressure to introduce tighter controls and improve oversight. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily Mail 2025-07-24

More petty bickering removed.This is becoming way to repetitive from @transam @Harrisfan. Your both heading toward the bench.

The kids are not "kids" at that age, get out and let them decide where they want to be. You are entitled to a life too.