World News Rundown: Flames, Laws, and Diplomatic Moves

A brief on global developments: Winter Games flame ceremony in Italy, Germany's new military law, U.S.-Russia peace talks, and Xi's meeting with Macron. Trump presides over the World Cup draw, a cyclone impacts Sri Lanka's tourism, and Putin-Modi discuss trade ties. Greece upgrades military, and a U.S. pipe bomb suspect faces court.

The Olympic flame ceremony ignited in Italy, marking the start of its journey across the nation for the 2026 Winter Games. Meanwhile, Germany's parliament passed a contentious military service law amid rising tensions with Russia, aiming to bolster Bundeswehr numbers to meet NATO goals.

Amid diplomatic efforts, the Kremlin expressed optimism about continued U.S.-Russia talks concerning Ukraine. President Putin and U.S. officials engaged in extensive discussions, showing a willingness to advance the peace plan, despite differences on certain elements.

In other diplomatic news, Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted a visit for France's President Macron, underscoring China's strategic interest in strengthening ties with Paris. However, substantial agreements between the two nations were not forthcoming from the meeting.