A new U.S. airstrike campaign against Yemen’s Houthi rebels under President Trump is more intense, targeting personnel and city areas, unlike the Biden administration’s limited strikes. This shift follows Houthi threats against Israeli vessels and attacks on Israel over Gaza aid issues. The campaign has drawn scrutiny in Washington, especially after plans were shared inappropriately. Despite the intensified strikes, experts warn that bombing alone may not stop the resilient Houthis, who have previously launched significant missile attacks against the U.S. Navy. Noah Prescott 27/03/2025 12:30 pm
Reports of four US soldiers dying near the Belarusian border in Lithuania remain unconfirmed, according to NATO. Initial statements by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte were based on emerging news, not confirmed facts. The soldiers’ vehicle was found submerged, and recovery efforts continue. Lithuania’s Defense Ministry and the US military emphasize that no bodies have been found, and the search is ongoing. The soldiers were conducting tactical training in a Hercules armored vehicle. Lithuanian and foreign troops, aided by helicopters and border agents, are involved in the search. Ava Sinclair 27/03/2025 12:30 pm
Russia’s Defense Ministry accused Ukraine of violating a 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure attacks, claiming Ukrainian drone strikes caused power outages in Kursk and Bryansk. This follows reports of a U.S.-mediated agreement to halt such strikes. Ukrainian President Zelensky mentioned the ceasefire could start, but it’s unclear if he ordered a halt. Russia claims Ukraine’s actions disrupt U.S.-Russia agreements. However, regional authorities reported no outages. Russian President Putin ordered the ceasefire after talks with U.S. President Trump, aiming for peace through an energy ceasefire. Penelope Kingsley 27/03/2025 12:30 pm
Wildfires in South Korea have doubled in size, becoming the country’s worst natural fire disaster, with at least 27 fatalities and historic temples destroyed. Over 33,000 hectares have burned, surpassing the previous record of 24,000 hectares in 2000. The fires, originating in Uiseong county, have spread rapidly due to gusty winds and dry conditions. More than 120 helicopters are deployed, but limited rain is expected. Experts link the fire’s unusual spread to climate change, which is increasing the frequency and severity of wildfires globally. Penelope Kingsley 27/03/2025 9:00 am
Rachel Reeves faces criticism following a Spring Statement labeled “humiliating” by the Daily Mail and a “bombshell” by the Sun. The Guardian and Daily Mirror accuse her of balancing the budget at the poor’s expense, with welfare cuts sparking backlash. The i Paper highlights 250,000 people pushed into poverty, while the Daily Express warns of a record tax burden. The Telegraph and Financial Times caution about potential tax rises and global trade war threats. Critics argue Labour’s approach mirrors austerity, with Reeves’ credibility questioned. Noah Prescott 27/03/2025 9:00 am
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans to discuss with Jamaica the role of Cuban doctors in its health system, following U.S. threats to halt visas for officials linked to these programs. Rubio accuses the programs of human trafficking, claims denied by Cuba and Caribbean leaders, who assert the programs comply with labor laws. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized the importance of the program and its compliance with local laws. Rubio acknowledged different implementations across countries and aims to understand Jamaica’s approach. Cuba dismisses Rubio’s stance as a personal agenda. Penelope Kingsley 27/03/2025 9:00 am
NATO initially reported the deaths of four U.S. soldiers missing in Lithuania during a training exercise, but later clarified that their status was unconfirmed and the search continued. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte mistakenly referenced emerging news reports about the soldiers’ deaths, leading to confusion. A NATO spokesperson later apologized for the misunderstanding, emphasizing that the fate of the soldiers remains unknown and the search is ongoing. The U.S. Army has not confirmed any deaths, and efforts to locate the soldiers continue. Noah Prescott 27/03/2025 9:00 am
South Sudan’s First Vice-President Riek Machar has been placed under house arrest by an armed convoy led by top security officials, according to his party, SPLM/IO. This move, amid escalating tensions with President Salva Kiir, has raised fears of a return to civil war. The UN warns that the nation risks losing peace gains, while international embassies are reducing staff and advising citizens to leave. Machar’s detention, alongside his wife, is seen as a violation of the peace agreement, threatening national stability. Ava Sinclair 27/03/2025 9:00 am
Belal Abu Zaid, a Palestinian from northern Gaza, joined hundreds in protests against both Israel and Hamas, blaming them for Gaza’s destruction. While he holds Israel primarily responsible, he also criticizes Hamas for its role, particularly after the October 7 attacks on Israel. Protests in Beit Lahia and Deir al-Balah saw demonstrators chanting against Hamas and calling for an end to the war. Participants expressed frustration with both parties, urging Hamas to step down and calling for an end to the bloodshed and oppressive conditions. Noah Prescott 27/03/2025 5:30 am
Emmanuel Macron warned that Russia still desires war despite ceasefire efforts, as European leaders, including Volodymyr Zelenskyy, met in Paris to discuss security guarantees for Kyiv. Macron criticized Russia for imposing new conditions and praised Ukraine for risking peace. A British-French-led coalition is considering deploying peacekeepers if a ceasefire is reached. Macron announced a €2bn military aid package for Ukraine. No agreed ceasefire exists, with Russia demanding sanctions relief for a Black Sea shipping ceasefire. Despite a claimed moratorium, Russian strikes continue, causing casualties and damage in Ukraine. Penelope Kingsley 27/03/2025 5:30 am
