UK Leadership Shake-Up: Keir Starmer announced he will resign as prime minister and Labour leader, staying on as caretaker until a new Labour leader is chosen; the handover is expected to clear the way for Andy Burnham after his parliamentary by-election win, with markets watching for policy continuity. Royal Process: A report notes King Charles must formally receive Starmer’s resignation in person before inviting the successor to form a government. Japan Tax Plan: Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi said the consumption tax cut for food and beverages will be temporary, with the rate restored after two years, as inflation and fiscal stress persist. China-US Procurement Curbs: China’s finance ministry barred government buyers from purchasing products from 46 designated US firms, citing legal compliance and excluding US-invested companies operating in China. Armenia IMF-World Bank Talks: Armenia’s finance minister and central bank chair met IMF and World Bank leaders on stability, growth, climate diagnostics, and digital public services. Global Poverty Debate: A new “Global Justice Report” reignited arguments over whether growth, aid, or wealth redistribution is the key to reducing poverty. Public Health Alert: Australia confirmed a second Western Australia bird with H5N1, prompting lockdown steps for poultry operations. Ukraine Accountability: Sweden joined a special tribunal and claims commission framework aimed at pursuing Russia’s aggression and evaluating damages. Regional Development: Armenia’s territorial ministry discussed stricter dust-control requirements for subsoil users, while Sardinia unveiled a narrow-gauge hydrogen train to expand low-carbon transport.