President Donald Trump criticized Vladimir Putin for Russian attacks on Kyiv, urging him to “STOP” after a deadly assault killed at least nine and injured over 70. Trump expressed frustration over stalled U.S.-led peace efforts and criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for not surrendering Crimea to Russia. Zelenskyy maintains that recognizing occupied territories as Russian is unacceptable for Ukraine. Noah Prescott 24/04/2025 7:30 pm
The Trump administration has appointed Michael Anton, a senior State Department official, to lead the U.S. technical team in nuclear negotiations with Iran. Anton, the State Department’s policy planning director, will oversee a team of career officials to negotiate constraints on Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. He will lead initial expert talks with Iran before further meetings in Rome. Anton, a low-profile yet influential figure, has not publicly stated his stance on the issue. The administration remains divided on whether to pursue diplomacy or military action against Iran. Ava Sinclair 24/04/2025 4:00 pm
Following a militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated. Pakistan responded by suspending visas for Indian nationals, expelling diplomats, and closing its airspace to Indian flights. India named suspects linked to the Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, but Pakistan denies involvement. Both countries have taken diplomatic measures, with India closing the Attari-Wagah border. Indian Prime Minister Modi vowed to pursue and punish those responsible for the attack. Ava Sinclair 24/04/2025 4:00 pm
China’s Shenzhou 20 mission launched on April 24, carrying commander Chen Dong and rookie astronauts Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie to the Tiangong space station. The crew will dock approximately 6.5 hours post-launch and take over from the Shenzhou 19 team, led by Cai Xuzhe, for a six-month mission. The Shenzhou 19 crew will return to Earth on April 29. Chen Dong, on his third spaceflight, previously led the Shenzhou 14 mission, completing Tiangong’s three-module setup. Ava Sinclair 24/04/2025 4:00 pm
President Trump indicated a shift in tone regarding tariffs, suggesting a fair deal with China amid a trade war marked by high tariffs on both sides. This change aims to prevent a halt in U.S.-China trade and address economic uncertainty affecting the stock market. While Trump initially accepted potential short-term economic pain, it’s unclear if policy changes will follow this new stance. Penelope Kingsley 24/04/2025 4:00 pm
At least nine people were killed and over 80 injured in a Russian attack on Kyiv, involving drones and ballistic missiles, according to Ukrainian officials. President Zelenskyy, in South Africa, plans to return early. The attack targeted multiple regions, including Zhytomyr and Kharkiv. Rescue operations continue as officials condemn Russia’s actions, emphasizing the ongoing threat to Ukrainian civilians. Noah Prescott 24/04/2025 4:00 pm
Indian officials are responding to a mass shooting in India-administered Kashmir that killed 26 and injured 17. Gunmen in military-style uniforms attacked a popular tourist spot near Pahalgam. The Resistance Front, linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. The attack, the deadliest since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, raises India-Pakistan tensions. Prime Minister Modi vowed to fight terrorism, meeting with security officials to plan a response. The incident highlights ongoing regional tensions following India’s 2019 revocation of Kashmir’s semi-autonomous status. Penelope Kingsley 24/04/2025 12:30 pm
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a deadly attack in Kashmir killed 26 people, mostly tourists. India blamed Pakistan, citing “cross-border” links, though no evidence was provided. Pakistan denied involvement, and a new militant group, the Kashmir Resistance, claimed responsibility. The attack increased pressure on India’s government to act, while Pakistan warned of retaliatory measures. Demonstrations in Pakistan protested India’s suspension of a water-sharing treaty. The situation recalls past conflicts, notably the 2019 near-war following a suicide bombing in Kashmir. Penelope Kingsley 24/04/2025 12:30 pm
A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck Istanbul, causing evacuations but no immediate damage reports. The epicenter was near Silivri, 80 km west of the city. Aftershocks were felt, and some shops closed. One person was injured jumping off a balcony. Transport infrastructure remained unaffected. Authorities urged calm, and President Erdogan monitored the situation. The quake occurred during a public holiday, and Turkey experienced a devastating earthquake two years prior. Ava Sinclair 24/04/2025 12:30 pm
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to South Africa marks a significant diplomatic shift, improving previously strained relations. This visit aims to counter Russia’s influence in Africa, where Ukraine has increased its diplomatic presence. The trip is crucial as Ukraine’s ties with the US have soured under President Trump. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa views the visit as a chance to enhance his peacemaker image amid US pressure. Both leaders aim to discuss peace efforts, with Zelensky seeking international legitimacy beyond Europe. Ava Sinclair 24/04/2025 12:30 pm
