Public Safety: A woman reported an alleged alcohol-fuelled assault and disturbance in Petesa, with police arresting two males—one identified as PJ Niue (a juvenile is handled separately in the juvenile justice system). Police say the incident involved rock-throwing and an assault near a roadway, with Niue charged with public peace disturbance and third-degree assault; he was held without bail. Regional Security: Pacific leaders and elders are reacting to China’s nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific, with Australia and New Zealand condemning the move and Papua New Guinea urging all major powers to stop missile testing in Pacific waters. U.S.-Pacific Policy: Newly appointed U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly says securing Cook Islands seabed critical minerals is a top priority and warns Pacific states about risks from China’s growing influence. Fisheries Governance: The 25th Forum Fisheries Committee ministerial meeting wrapped up in Wellington, with Niue’s Mona Ainu’u thanked for chairing and New Zealand’s Shane Jones taking over for 2026–27. Health & Development: Vanuatu launched the HeartCare mobile app to help community health workers screen for heart disease risk earlier, aiming to connect people to care before serious events.