US military kills 11 people in strike on alleged drug boat from Venezuela, Trump says
The US military carried out a strike on a Venezuelan vessel linked to the Tren de Aragua gang, killing 11 people. President Donald Trump confirmed the operation, sharing a video on Truth Social showing the boat exploding at sea, according to Reuters.
The Pentagon has not disclosed details on the type or quantity of drugs involved. Human rights advocates have questioned the legality and proportionality of the strike, while Venezuela’s government disputed the video’s authenticity, though Reuters found no evidence of manipulation.
This marks the first military action since the US increased its naval presence in the southern Caribbean, deploying at least seven warships and a nuclear submarine to combat narcotics trafficking. The escalation comes amid heightened tensions, as the US recently raised its reward for information leading to President Nicolas Maduro’s arrest to $50m, Reuters reported.
Bomb blast kills 11 at rally Political Rally in southwestern Pakistan
A bomb exploded at a rally in Quetta, southwestern Pakistan, killing 11 people and injuring around 30. The event marked the anniversary of nationalist leader Sardar Ataullah Mengal. His son, Sardar Akhtar Mengal, who attended the rally, was unharmed.
The explosion occurred in a parking area as attendees were leaving, and authorities suspect a suicide attack. No group has claimed responsibility. Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, has a history of unrest involving Islamist militants and separatist insurgents. Investigations are ongoing, according to Reuters.
Trump dismisses rumors he is in ill health
President Donald Trump has dismissed recent rumors about his health as “fake,” emphasizing his active schedule over the Labor Day weekend, including media interviews and a visit to his Virginia golf course. The speculation followed his brief absence from public events and comments from Vice President JD Vance, who affirmed confidence in Trump’s health but noted readiness to assume leadership if needed, Reuters reported.
Trump, 79, had a full physical in April showing no major issues. Doctors attributed minor leg swelling and hand bruising to age-related conditions and routine factors, which the White House described as not serious.
Xi hails 'unstoppable China' as new weapons displayed in military parade
President Xi Jinping oversaw China’s largest military parade in Tiananmen Square, marking the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War II. Before a crowd of more than 50,000, Xi warned the world stands at a crossroads of “peace or war,” urging dialogue over confrontation.
The parade showcased China’s expanding military power, featuring hypersonic missiles, advanced drones, fighter jets and other cutting-edge weapons. The event underscored Beijing’s drive to project strength on the global stage, according to Reuters.
Xi was joined by Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, highlighting closer ties among leaders who share growing tensions with the West. Analysts said the gathering was as much a geopolitical statement as a display of force.



