Military moves and global tensions: overnight world update

Belarus is getting ready for secretive rail shipments from Russia. The RBC Ukraine website reports that Belarus might be gearing up to receive trains loaded with Russian military gear, personnel, and ammunition, drawing on the Belarusian Hejnał Telegram channel. The Belarusian Railwaymen Community has let out that units from the areas of Ukraine under temporary occupation could also be heading to Belarus. They highlighted that Minsk is making moves to keep these shipments under wraps. The Belarusian Hejnał Telegram channel hints that Belarus is planning significant military drills that would see the transfer of Russian forces onto its soil.

Slovak Deputy Prime Minister gives reassurance. Fico is "not in life-threatening condition." Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is "not in life-threatening condition," says a report by PAP, citing Slovak Deputy Prime Minister Tomas Taraba's interview with the BBC on Wednesday. "As far as I know, the operation went well and I guess that at the end he will survive," Taraba commented. Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot on Wednesday in the town of Handlova, near Banska Bystrica, following a road meeting of the cabinet. Media reports noted that he sustained injuries to his abdomen and chest. A 71-year-old suspect has been detained, with their motives still unclear.

Four were killed in New Caledonia unrest. France announces state of emergency. According to Reuters Agency, France declared a state of emergency in New Caledonia on Wednesday. The turmoil, sparked by the dissent against electoral reform proposals, led to four fatalities - three young Kanaks and a police officer. The imposition of a state of emergency grants the authorities powers to enforce bans on congregations and movements across the island, a territory under French governance. Following the riot outbreak, where buildings and vehicles were set ablaze and shops pillaged, an extra contingent of 500 officers was dispatched to the territory. "No violence will be tolerated", stated French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, emphasizing that the state of emergency "will allow us to roll out massive means to restore order." The imposition of the state of emergency in New Caledonia was effective from Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Greenwich Time, reports "The Washington Post."

Trump and Biden set for debates. Donald Trump has agreed to Joe Biden's proposal for two presidential debates, which was announced on Wednesday by the President of the USA. The televised debates are slated for the end of June and September, in the run-up to the presidential elections scheduled for November 5. The opening debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump is scheduled for June 27 on CNN and the subsequent one on September 10 on ABC television, the former President disclosed on Wednesday. The Trump team also favours hosting two more debates in July and August. "It is my great honor to accept the CNN Debate against Crooked Joe Biden, the WORST PRESIDENT in the History of the United States and a true Threat to Democracy, on June 27th." Trump broadcast on his TRUTH Social networking page. He confirmed agreeing to the September 10 debate on ABC News as well.