Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian Su-30 fighter jet using a seaborne drone near Novorossiysk, marking the first such incident globally. The Ukrainian Magura drone reportedly destroyed the jet, which fell into the sea. While CNN couldn’t verify the claim, a Russian military blogger supported it. Ukraine has increasingly relied on drones to counter Russia’s superior resources, having previously used them to sink Russian ships. Drones, controlled via Starlink, have been effective against Russia’s Black Sea fleet since Ukraine lost its navy post-Crimea annexation. Ava Sinclair 04/05/2025 5:30 pm
Hamas executed alleged looters in Gaza after armed gangs attacked food stores, accusing some of collaborating with Israel, which has blocked aid for two months. An Israeli drone killed a police officer during a pursuit. Hamas vowed to deter looters, claiming some received Israeli support. Curfews were imposed to control crime. The UN warns of a worsening humanitarian crisis due to the blockade, with protests over food shortages. Israel claims Hamas diverts aid, a charge Hamas denies. The situation highlights Gaza’s increasing strain amid Israeli-imposed buffer zones. Noah Prescott 04/05/2025 5:30 pm
A missile fired from Yemen by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels forced Israel to temporarily shut down Ben Gurion Airport after a failed interception. The missile landed near the airport, highlighting Israel’s vulnerabilities despite advanced defense systems like the Arrow and US-deployed THAAD. The Houthis claimed the attack was in response to Israel’s actions in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz promised strong retaliatory measures. Israel’s security cabinet planned to meet to address the incident. Noah Prescott 04/05/2025 5:30 pm
Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that Russia has the “strength and means” to conclude its war on Ukraine, emphasizing no need for nuclear weapons. Despite international efforts, the conflict persists over three years after the invasion. Putin announced a temporary three-day ceasefire for May 8, which Ukraine criticized as a “theatrical performance.” Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed readiness for a lasting ceasefire if Russia reciprocates, but noted ongoing Russian strikes suggest continued aggression. Noah Prescott 04/05/2025 2:00 pm
Ivan Sarancha, now 18, was unaware of the political changes in Ukraine when Russian President Putin annexed Crimea in 2014. However, Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 opened his eyes to the conflict’s realities. Shocked by events like the destruction of Mariupol and the Bucha massacre, Sarancha developed critical thinking by comparing Russian, Ukrainian, and American news using a VPN. His escape from occupied territory to free Ukraine has made him a media star, inspiring the nation and offering insights into life in isolated regions. Ava Sinclair 04/05/2025 2:00 pm
Romanians are voting in a crucial presidential election redo after last year’s annulled vote led to a political crisis. Eleven candidates are competing, with a May 18 runoff expected. By noon, 19.5% of voters had participated, including 500,000 from abroad. The previous election was voided due to alleged violations and Russian interference. Anti-establishment sentiment is high, boosting support for nationalist figures. Polls suggest hard-right George Simion may face Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan or coalition candidate Crin Antonescu in the runoff. Ava Sinclair 04/05/2025 2:00 pm
A small plane crashed in the Bolivian jungle, flipping into a lagoon with anacondas and alligators. The pilot and four passengers, including a 6-year-old, endured 36 hours clinging to the wreckage before rescue. All survived, with minor injuries and dehydration. The pilot, Pablo Andrés Velarde, speculated that jet fuel deterred predators. They survived on cassava flour, unable to drink the gasoline-tainted water. The incident provided rare uplifting news for Bolivia amid ongoing crises. Noah Prescott 04/05/2025 2:00 pm
In Ashrafieh Sahnaya, Syria, government forces regained control after clashes with armed groups, highlighting the new leadership’s fragile security hold. Government officials, alongside Druse leaders, pledged unity and peace. Druse militias, wary of joining the national military, agreed to surrender weapons and integrate fighters in exchange for government concessions and investigations into recent abuses. Ava Sinclair 04/05/2025 10:30 am
Israel plans to mobilize thousands of reservists, signaling an expanded offensive in Gaza as ceasefire talks stall. The plan, presented by IDF Chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, includes evacuating civilians from northern and central Gaza. Concerns rise among families of 59 Israeli hostages held by Hamas, fearing escalation endangers them. Negotiations mediated by Egypt and Qatar have failed, with Hamas demanding a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal. Netanyahu criticized Qatar for allegedly siding with Hamas, complicating diplomatic efforts. The situation remains tense, with hostages’ safety a top priority for Israelis. Ava Sinclair 04/05/2025 10:30 am
Israel intercepted a missile from Yemen, marking the third Houthi attack in 24 hours, as the US continues airstrikes in Yemen. The Houthi spokesperson claimed the attack was in response to Israeli actions in Gaza. The Houthis target Israel and Red Sea routes in solidarity with Palestinians. Meanwhile, US airstrikes in Yemen have intensified, causing significant civilian casualties, with reports of high death tolls, including African migrants. The situation has raised international concern over the humanitarian impact. Penelope Kingsley 04/05/2025 7:00 am
