BBC News Briefing

7 June, 2024

Sofia Lotto Persio

Hello. In this edition, we focus on one of the world's least-covered conflicts - Myanmar's civil war. Yogita Limaye spends time in the western Chin state, where a resistance group has defeated the army in parts of the territory. We're also introducing a new feature, bringing you my selection of the most insightful stories of the week. As ever, we welcome your feedback. In other important developments, I scored 7/7 on this week's news quiz for the first time ever. Admittedly, most were lucky guesses - but it is possible, so give it your best try.

GET UP TO SPEED

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has claimed his country wouldn't need to use a nuclear weapon to win in Ukraine - but he nonetheless delivered a warning to Europe, writes Russia editor Steve Rosenberg.

Hunter Biden's daughter Naomi has delivered a surprise testimony as a defence witness in her father's criminal trial, where he stands accused of lying about his drug use on a form when purchasing a gun.

Leading figures from the seven major political parties in the UK have gone head-to-head during the BBC's TV election debate. Our live page has the reactions and highlights.

AT THE SCENE

Chin State, Myanmar

Young people facing up to regime

young women in camouflage clothing stand to attention at a resistance group's training camp

Masses of teenagers have chosen to abandon their dreams to join the uprising. Credit: Aakriti Thapar/BBC

Seven months ago, the ethnic armed group Chin National Army pushed Myanmar’s army out of several areas of the western Chin state. The unprecedented result came after multiple offensives were launched for more than a year. And for some families it came at an excruciating cost.

Yogita Limaye, South Asia and Afghanistan correspondent

Almost everywhere we go, we see Myanmar’s young swept up in a wave of revolution. Thousands who worked for the Burmese state have also switched sides. Twenty-two-year old Vanlalpekthara was a policeman. “He used to earn a comfortable salary. But then the government was overthrown in a coup and he decided to join the resistance,” his mother Molly Khiang tells us.

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Six days after he joined rebel forces in March 2022, Vanlalpekthara was killed. Speaking of her own youth, spent under military rule, his mother says, “There wasn’t a single day of joy back then. We were so scared of them. That’s why I supported my son’s decision.”

Read in full

Rakhine State: At least 50 people were killed by Myanmar soldiers in a raid on a village last week, say locals and opposition forces. Eyewitnesses told the BBC the village was subjected to two-and-half days of terror. The ruling military council has denied the accusations.

Karenni State: A network of clandestine routes has been established from Myanmar’s main cities, so those rebelling against the military’s new conscription law can reach resistance-held areas.

PICKS OF THE WEEK

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Trump's billionaire backers

Even after his conviction, Donald Trump can count of the support of deep-pocketed individuals.

Who they are >

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Quenching the thirst of the sober generation

Japan's biggest brewer tells Mariko Oi how it is adapting to the alcohol-free tastes of Gen Zers.

What young people think >

Rahul Gandhi smiles while speaking at a press conference

A political comeback for the ages

India's opposition coalition has performed better than expected at the election. Its loss is still being celebrated as a success.

Here's why >

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Your weekend listening: Measles' resurgence

The number of cases for this most contagious and easily preventable disease around the world nearly doubled last year.

Listen now >

THE BIG PICTURE

High-profile wedding with royal guests

Hugh Groscenor and Olivia Hanson pictured outside Chester Cathedral

Hugh Grosvenor and Olivia Henson married in Chester. They paid shops to hand out free ice-creams for the day. Credit: PA Media.

Prince William was among the 400 guests attending the nuptials of the Duke of Westminster, who was once considered Britain's most eligible bachelor by some UK media. Hugh Grosvenor is King Charles III's godson as well as godfather to Prince George, and one of Britain's wealthiest men.

See the pictures

A woman holds her head looking tired while holding a cup of coffee.

FOR YOUR DOWNTIME

Whole lotta latte

Caffeine has a powerful effect on humans - too much can have adverse effects.

Find out more

And finally... in Tanzania

The coral reef surrounding Mnemba Island, part of the Zanzibar archipelago, is under threat from warmer sea temperatures, illegal fishing and damage by tourism. But locals like Atuwa Omary have come up with a solution to preserve the reef. Take a look.

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– Sofia

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