A highly anticipated meeting between the presidents of China and Russia in Uzbekistan comes as Beijing and Moscow want to increase their own ties with Central Asia while presenting a common front against the West.
Italy plunged into political uncertainty on Thursday after Prime Minister Mario Draghi submitted his resignation over the loss of support for his economic reform package from a main coalition partner, the Five Star Movement. But President Sergio Mattarella has rejected his resignation.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK would "provide support" if Sweden were to be attacked. The agreement comes as Sweden and Finland are set to decide whether to join NATO.