China has conducted a long-range missile test in the Pacific, landing a dummy warhead in designated waters, according to state news agency Xinhua. The test was described as a routine arrangement of China's annual military training, with prior notification given to relevant countries. However, Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong condemned the move, stating it was 'lacking in the transparency and reassurance as to intent that the region expects.'
Reaction from Australia and the Region
Wong's comments reflect broader concerns in the Pacific about China's military activities. The test comes amid heightened tensions, with Australia and Fiji recently signing a surprise defence alliance aimed at limiting China's influence in the region. The Australian government views the missile test as destabilising, urging China to provide clearer communication about its military intentions.
Other Top News
In other developments, the Australian Space Agency has revealed the likely origin of mysterious 'space balls' found on Queensland beaches. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese apologised 'unequivocally' for a podcast comment about Kylie Minogue. An independent review has been announced as police investigate if cannibalism was involved in a four-year-old's alleged murder. A Melbourne teacher is receiving end-of-life care after a horror head clash during a suburban football game. Ukraine hopes to sign 'drone deals' with seven NATO countries by year's end.
World Cup 2026 Highlights
A 10-man England side defeated Mexico 3-2 in a chaotic last-16 match, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice. Erling Haaland scored two goals to send Norway into the quarter-finals, defeating Brazil 2-1, calling it 'one of the sickest days ever in Norwegian history.' US coach Mauricio Pochettino celebrated after Donald Trump successfully lobbied FIFA to lift striker Folarin Balogun's one-game ban, boosting the US ahead of their match against Belgium. Belgium's coach Rudi Garcia compared the decision to an April Fools' joke.
In Pictures
Winterfest Sydney 2026 featured a medieval village with historical re-enactments, jousting knights, and mermaids, captured in photographs by Liz Ham.
What They Said
Cristiano Ronaldo, at a press conference, stated this World Cup would be his last, saying 'They've tried to kill me for 23 years.' When asked if he might return, he replied, 'You don't want me back.'
Full Story
Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani, the popular new mayor of New York City, is endorsing candidates that topple established Democrats. A podcast explores whether his approach could make 2028 the year of the leftwing president and if the Democrats are still fit to take on Trump.
Before Bed Read
China is focusing on developing dextrous hands for humanoid robots, aiming to solve the hardest problem in robotics. Companies in China believe they are close to surpassing this final hurdle, transforming robots from gimmicks into useful products.
Daily Word Game
Today's starter word is CAPE. Players have five goes to get the longest word including the starter word.
