TODAY’s brief, Friday, Oct 2

Russia to intensify aerial campaign against Syrian targets

Russia is expected to intensify its aerial campaign today against targets in Syria that are purportedly part of the Islamic State (IS). However, given Russia’s support for Syrian President Bashar Assad, and reports that Russian planes are attacking groups fighting against Mr Assad’s rule, its participation in the conflict is expected to further complicate the possibility of a political settlement in Syria, and creates a new risk of inadvertent incidents between American and Russian warplanes flying in the same area.

Trade ministers in TTP talks to issue statement

Trade ministers involved in the 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) talks in Atlanta are expected to issue a statement today on whether they have agreed on a broad outline of the ambitious trade pact. However, with unresolved issues on drug patent periods, agricultural and automotive tariffs, it is uncertain if negotiators can reach a breakthrough. If negotiations remain at an impasse, talks could only resume in 2017 or even later.

Weather forecast

Hazy conditions are expected to continue today. The 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index is expected to be between the high end of the Unhealthy range and mid-section of the very unhealthy range. It may deteriorate to the high end of the very unhealthy range if denser haze is blown in. Showers are also expected mainly over northern and western Singapore in the afternoon tomorrow, with thundery showers expected over northern Singapore at night. The temperature is expected to be between 26°C and 33°C.