NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is set to meet President Trump to emphasize the importance of US leadership in NATO. Trump has consistently urged NATO members to increase their defense spending to at least 2% of GDP and has threatened to withdraw US support if they fail to do so. The meeting will focus on NATO’s future and the need for European allies to enhance their defense contributions. Trump insists the US will remain in NATO only if members “pay their bills,” separating NATO’s broader role from the situation in Ukraine. Ava Sinclair 13/03/2025 4:00 pm
A UN report accuses Israel of using sexual and gender-based violence against Palestinians to undermine their self-determination. The report highlights increased violence, including forced nudity, sexual harassment, and assault, as part of Israeli forces’ tactics. It also notes the destruction of reproductive healthcare facilities in Gaza, exacerbating health crises for women and girls. The report calls for accountability through international and national courts, emphasizing the need for justice and the upholding of the rule of law. Penelope Kingsley 13/03/2025 12:30 pm
South Africa plans to increase health and defense budgets, raising value-added tax by 0.5%, impacting living costs. An additional 28.9 billion rand ($1.5 billion) is allocated for health in 2025 to offset U.S. aid cuts under Trump. This funding will support 9,300 medical staff and 800 new doctors. Health spending will rise from 277 billion rand in 2024/25 to 329 billion rand in 2027/28, addressing concerns over the strained health system, especially for HIV care, following the cancellation of PEPFAR aid. Ava Sinclair 13/03/2025 12:30 pm
In a now-deleted Instagram reel, influencer Sam Jones was seen separating a young wombat from its mother for a photo, causing distress to both animals. Wildlife experts criticized the act, highlighting the rising trend of people interacting with wildlife for social media, which can harm animals by triggering stress and fear responses. Such interactions can have serious consequences, including potential injury to humans, as wombats can be defensive and carry diseases like mange. Penelope Kingsley 13/03/2025 12:30 pm
U.S. arms deliveries to Ukraine resumed after the Trump administration lifted its suspension of military aid. This follows a proposed 30-day ceasefire endorsed by Ukraine, awaiting Russia’s response. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized the need for detailed information from the U.S. before responding. Previously, Russia has opposed anything short of a permanent conflict resolution. President Trump aims to end the three-year war, pressuring Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to negotiate. The resumption of aid marks a significant policy shift after recent talks with Ukrainian officials. Penelope Kingsley 13/03/2025 9:00 am
US officials are heading to Russia to discuss a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, following a 30-day ceasefire agreement by Ukrainian officials after talks in Saudi Arabia. President Trump mentioned receiving “positive messages” but emphasized the seriousness of the situation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that peace negotiations are essential. The Kremlin is reviewing the proposal, and a call between Trump and Putin is possible. National Security Secretary Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff are involved in the negotiations. The White House urges Russia to agree to the plan. Ava Sinclair 13/03/2025 9:00 am
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested near Manila and surrendered to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Netherlands. He faces charges of murder as a crime against humanity related to his war on drugs. ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan emphasized the significance of the arrest for victims, highlighting the strength of international law. Duterte acknowledged his responsibility, stating he led law enforcement and military efforts. Noah Prescott 13/03/2025 9:00 am
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio faces a challenging G7 meeting in La Malbaie, Canada, amid tensions over President Trump’s steel and aluminum tariffs. These tariffs have angered key allies, including Canada, the EU, and others, sparking potential trade wars. Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly plans to address the tariffs in meetings, criticizing Trump’s rhetoric about Canada as the “51st state.” Rubio downplayed these comments, suggesting Trump was merely expressing an idea. Penelope Kingsley 13/03/2025 5:30 am
The Ocean Census, a global alliance founded by the Nippon Foundation and Nekton, discovered over 800 new marine species, including sharks, corals, and shrimp, through 10 global expeditions and workshops. This initiative, involving 400 institutions and 93 scientists, aims to accelerate marine species identification, which can take up to 13.5 years. The alliance highlights the need for ocean biodiversity protection, with a 2023 UN treaty aiming to protect 30% of oceans by 2030. The discoveries were made using advanced technology and analyzed globally, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts. Ava Sinclair 13/03/2025 5:30 am
Baloch separatists in Pakistan hijacked a train carrying hundreds of passengers, highlighting the country’s worsening security situation. The attack ended with over 50 insurgents killed, but the number of rescued hostages remains unclear. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility, demanding the release of jailed militants. Experts note the attack’s scale indicates significant intelligence and security challenges in Balochistan. This incident marks a strategic shift for the BLA, showcasing their enhanced capabilities. Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province, has faced numerous attacks in recent years. Ava Sinclair 13/03/2025 5:30 am
