AnewZ Morning Brief - 18th July, 2025

Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for 18th July, covering the latest developments you need to know.

1. Chairman of Turkmenistan’s Halk Maslahaty sees rebuilt Karabakh on Azerbaijan visit

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chairman of Turkmenistan’s Halk Maslahaty visited Azerbaijan’s Karabakh region at the invitation of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. 

Welcomed at Fuzuli International Airport, he toured key reconstruction sites in Fuzuli and Shusha, including newly built infrastructure, residential areas, and restored cultural landmarks. The visit symbolized the deepening cultural and diplomatic ties between the two countries.

2. Deadly monsoon floods claim more than 60 lives in Pakistan's Punjab

At least 63 more people were killed and nearly 300 injured within 24 hours as torrential monsoon rains battered Pakistan’s Punjab province, causing widespread destruction. Most fatalities were caused by collapsing buildings, electrocution, and drowning. 

Authorities declared a public holiday in Rawalpindi and issued evacuation orders for people in flood-prone areas. Officials warn of more heavy rains and flash floods over the weekend, as Pakistan continues to face mounting climate-related threats.

3. Slovakia lifts veto on EU’s 18th sanctions package against Russia

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said the decision came after the European Commission provided guarantees to help Slovakia manage gas shortages, price spikes, and possible legal claims from Russian energy supplier Gazprom.

The sanctions focus on restricting Russia’s energy revenue by capping oil prices and banning transactions involving the Nord Stream pipelines and banks involved in sanctions evasion.

4. UK and Germany agree on direct London–Berlin train and defence exports

The Kensington Treaty, signed by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday, paves the way for a direct rail link between London and Berlin, faster e-gates for travellers, and joint defence exports worth billions.

5. White House confirms Trump diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency

President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, explaining the swelling in his legs. A full vascular check ruled out serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis and heart issues. 

Makeup seen on his hand was used to cover minor bruising from handshakes and aspirin use. The condition is common in people over 70 and affects blood flow in the legs.

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