*) US Covid-19 cases rise by record 60,565 in single day

The United States has reported at least 60,565 new Covid-19 cases, a new daily record increase.

For the third day in a row, US deaths climbed by more than 800, the highest level seen since early June. The pandemic has infected more than 12 million people across the world and killed over 557,000. *) US sanctions Chinese officials over Uighur rights The US has imposed sanctions on Chinese officials in the first major course of action to stop abuses against the Uighur Muslim minority.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the sanctions will target several senior government officials. The move is likely to further add to tensions between Washington and Beijing. *) Singaporeans go to polls amid virus pandemic Singaporeans wearing masks and gloves are set to cast their ballots for a general election under the cloud of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Voters could be seen standing far apart due to virus fears at polling stations, which resulted in long queues.

Covid-19 has pushed Singapore’s economy towards its worst-ever recession, making saving jobs the focus of the election.

*) North Korean leader’s sister says Kim-Trump summit unlikely The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has said she doesn’t expect her brother to meet US President Donald Trump this year. Kim Yo-jong said there’s no reason for the North to give Trump access to high-profile meetings when it’s not being substantially rewarded in return. She is seen as her brother’s closest confidant and has been recently confirmed his top official for inter-Korean affairs. And finally

*) Johnny Depp denies beating actor Amber Heard

Johnny Depp has denied all claims of domestic violence brought forth by actor Amber Heard, his ex-wife.

The “Pirates of the Caribbean” star is suing British tabloid The Sun for a 2018 article that claimed he was a “wife-beater”.

Both Depp and Heard were in court as lawyers for The Sun questioned him about allegations of violence during the couple’s time together.