On February 25, the Rubicon Center of Advanced Unmanned Systems, an elite Russian drone group, launched attacks on the Ukrainian supply line in Sudzha, Kursk Oblast. By March 10 or 11, Ukrainian forces evacuated Kursk, retreating to their side of the border. Despite false claims by U.S. President Donald Trump, they weren’t surrounded but were forced out after six months. The Rubicon drone group’s advanced tactics were crucial to Russia’s victory. Video evidence shows a drone conserving battery by resting near a road before attacking a Ukrainian convoy, highlighting their strategic approach. Penelope Kingsley 17/03/2025 7:30 am
Steve Witkoff, a Trump administration envoy, stated that the U.S. is exploring relocation options for Palestinians in Gaza after President Trump proposed U.S. involvement in rebuilding the region post-conflict with Israel. Trump suggested transforming Gaza into a “Riviera of the Middle East” and relocating Palestinians permanently. Despite criticism, Witkoff emphasized a U.S. proposal to Hamas, which included demilitarizing Hamas as a step towards peace. However, Hamas rejected the proposal, which Witkoff criticized, urging reconsideration for a better outcome. Noah Prescott 17/03/2025 7:30 am
Oil prices increased by about 1% as the U.S. pledged to continue attacks on Yemen’s Houthis until they cease assaults on shipping. Brent futures rose to $71.30 per barrel, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude reached $67.90. The U.S. airstrikes, reportedly killing at least 53 people, mark the largest military operation in the Middle East since President Trump assumed office. Noah Prescott 17/03/2025 7:30 am
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu seeks to dismiss Shin Bet head Ronen Bar amid a power struggle over responsibility for the Hamas attack that led to the Gaza war. Netanyahu cites “ongoing distrust” with Bar, who plans to stay to complete investigations and free hostages. Bar criticized Netanyahu’s demand for personal loyalty over public interest. Israel’s attorney general requires Netanyahu to justify his decision legally. Shin Bet admitted failures in the October 7 attack but criticized government policies and lack of action on its warnings. Netanyahu resists calls for an official inquiry. Ava Sinclair 17/03/2025 7:30 am
National security adviser Mike Waltz confirmed U.S. airstrikes eliminated multiple Houthi leaders, marking a shift from previous “feckless” attacks. Waltz emphasized targeting Houthi leadership and holding Iran accountable for supporting the Houthis, who disrupt global commerce by targeting U.S. warships and strategic sea lanes. He noted the economic impact, with global shipping diverting around southern Africa, increasing costs. Waltz stated this is part of a sustained effort to address the situation and reopen global commerce, as President Trump finds the current situation unacceptable. Penelope Kingsley 17/03/2025 4:00 am
Russia seeks guarantees that NATO will exclude Ukraine from membership and that Ukraine remains neutral in any peace deal, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko. This comes as US President Trump and Russian President Putin are expected to discuss a possible ceasefire in Ukraine. The US and Ukraine propose a 30-day ceasefire, but Putin has set tough conditions, including concerns over monitoring the ceasefire. Ukraine’s President Zelensky accuses Putin of sabotaging diplomatic efforts. Russia currently controls about a fifth of Ukraine. Noah Prescott 17/03/2025 4:00 am
The Houthis launched an attack on the USS Harry S Truman and its warships in the Red Sea, responding to 47 US airstrikes on Yemen. Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree warned of targeting US warships in retaliation. The US and Houthis warned of further escalation. The Houthis have targeted international shipping, citing solidarity with Palestinians. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the US would prevent Houthi control over shipping lanes. Recent US airstrikes killed 53 in Yemen. Trump vowed to use force against the Houthis and hold Iran accountable. Penelope Kingsley 17/03/2025 12:30 am
At the Gridiron Dinner, a longstanding Washington event, attendees broke tradition by not toasting President Trump, marking the first time since 1885. Instead, they toasted the First Amendment. Trump and his administration have not attended since 2018. The event featured friendly jabs, including Rep. Lisa McClain joking about Robert F. Kennedy Jr. having measles. Skits were also part of the evening’s entertainment. Penelope Kingsley 17/03/2025 12:30 am
Ukrainian forces have largely withdrawn from Russia’s Kursk region, ending a bold offensive that surprised the Kremlin last summer. The retreat was both organized and chaotic, as Russian forces advanced, destroying Ukrainian vehicles and depleting their ammunition. Commander Boroda described a two-day, 12-mile retreat to the Ukrainian border, with Russian forces reclaiming the area. Initially controlling 500 square miles, Ukrainian forces now hold just 30 square miles along the border, according to military analyst Pasi Paroinen. Penelope Kingsley 17/03/2025 12:30 am
Pope Francis, hospitalized since February 14, was photographed in a wheelchair at a Rome hospital, co-celebrating Mass. The Vatican shared the image, the first since his hospitalization, showing him without tubes or an oxygen mask. Anticipation for his public appearance was high, with children chanting for his return, but he did not appear. The Vatican reports his condition as “stable,” with ongoing respiratory and motor therapy sessions. Ava Sinclair 17/03/2025 12:30 am
