Cross-border cybercrime crackdown: A U.S.-led operation with the FBI and partners says it took down more than 1 million scam-related online accounts and froze millions in crypto, with 63 arrests tied to scam compounds in Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar—part of a wider push to hit trafficking-linked fraud networks. Regional diplomacy in focus: Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone joined leaders at the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 in Hanoi, where Vietnam’s PM urged ASEAN to move from reacting to global trends toward shaping new rules. Laos–Vietnam ties: In Hanoi, Laos and Vietnam reaffirmed their special relationship and agreed on closer political, defense, trade and investment cooperation, while also discussing practical steps to improve connectivity and goods movement. Laos–Thailand humanitarian cooperation: Laos PM Sonexay thanked Thailand for rescue support for Lao citizens trapped in a cave in Xaysomboun, highlighting joint search-and-rescue work and the rescue of five survivors. China–Laos top-level messaging: Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith’s China visit emphasized deepening an “all-weather” community and expanding cooperation after Xi Jinping’s talks in Beijing. ASEAN security backdrop: Amnesty again alleged Cambodia’s scam crackdown has not dismantled most operations, while Cambodia rejected the claims—underscoring the region’s ongoing enforcement and accountability debate.