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US Vice President JD Vance has arrived in the UK for a working visit, starting with a meeting with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy. The trip will include cultural visits and meetings with US troops, Firstpost reported.

Known for his “America First” stance and sharp criticism of Britain’s Labour Party, Vance’s visit comes amid heightened transatlantic tensions. Despite political differences, Vance and Lammy share a personal connection through faith.

Discussions will likely focus on Ukraine, Gaza, and trade. Protests are expected, reflecting opposition to Vance’s policies seen during his previous US trip, according to Firstpost.

China has lodged a strong protest against Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s recent remarks that the Philippines could not stay out of a conflict over Taiwan. Speaking during a visit to India, Marcos highlighted the country’s large Filipino community in Taiwan and said the Philippines would be drawn into any all-out war there to protect its people, Firstpost reported.

In response, China reaffirmed its “One China” policy, stressing that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and that the issue is a core internal matter. Chinese officials warned Manila against interfering in what they consider China’s sovereign affairs, despite geographic proximity and Filipino ties to Taiwan.

Marcos’s comments come amid escalating South China Sea tensions and reflect the Philippines’ push for stronger strategic partnerships, including with India, to bolster regional security. The Chinese embassy in Manila also lodged formal protests over the remarks, according to Firstpost.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky quickly withdrew a law that threatened the independence of anti-corruption agencies following mass protests.

Though the reversal eased tensions, his approval has dropped from 84 percent last year to about two-thirds, according to recent polls. The move exposed limits to public trust, with many fearing favoritism amid corruption concerns, Firstpost reported.

Zelensky now must work to restore confidence at home and abroad.

The US has temporarily halted routine visa services for Zimbabwean citizens, citing concerns with the Zimbabwean government. Diplomatic and official visas remain unaffected, Al Jazeera reported.

This is part of broader travel restrictions under President Trump targeting several African countries to prevent visa misuse and overstays. Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia are among nations asked to improve traveler vetting.

Separately, the US will require Malawian and Zambian visitors to pay bonds up to $15,000 for tourist or business visas starting August 20. The bond is forfeited if they overstay. Arrivals must use three specific US airports, according to Al Jazeera.

The State Department says these steps protect national security and public safety.