Taliban advance on major Afghan cities as US, UK troops to aid evacuations

13 Sept 11:53 Key points summarised by AI

The United States and Britain are deploying thousands of troops to Afghanistan to urgently evacuate their citizens and embassy staff as the Taliban make swift military advances.
Taliban forces are on the verge of seizing Afghanistan's second and third-largest cities, Herat and Kandahar, having already captured several provincial capitals and now controlling approximately two-thirds of the country.
The rapid Taliban offensive has prompted international warnings from the UN about a 'catastrophic impact on civilians' and calls for an accelerated peace process, while the Taliban have rejected any power-sharing offers.
This escalating crisis unfolds just weeks before the final departure of US-led international forces, drawing strong criticism and comparisons to the fall of Saigon during the Vietnam War.

Sihasak urges Thais in Europe to stay alert as protests spread

Yesterday 12:06 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow advises Thai nationals in Europe to avoid protest areas and reconsider non-essential travel, citing widespread unrest in countries like France, Italy, and Spain.
The warning comes as demonstrations escalate, with some turning violent, prompting concerns for safety and leading to an emergency Cabinet meeting in Italy and a proposed postponement of diplomatic talks.
Thai embassies and the Department of Consular Affairs issue advisories, urging citizens to monitor local developments, follow official announcements, and register their travel details for assistance, while emphasizing that no Thais have been directly affected yet.