Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DR Congo, capturing the regional governor’s office without resistance. This follows their capture of Goma in the mineral-rich region. The Congolese government has urged residents to stay home, while the UN and European countries warn of potential regional conflict. Residents report fear and looting, with gunfire heard. The M23 also captured Bukavu’s main airport before advancing into the city. Congolese troops withdrew to avoid urban combat. Noah Prescott 16/02/2025 9:00 pm
A 14-year-old boy was killed and five others injured in a stabbing attack in Villach, Austria. A 23-year-old Syrian national was arrested and charged with murder and attempted murder. The attack occurred near the city’s main square, targeting three teenage boys and three men. A civilian helped apprehend the suspect. Austria’s President condemned the attack, and the Interior Minister suggested a possible connection to the Islamic State group. Two victims were seriously wounded, with others still hospitalized. Penelope Kingsley 16/02/2025 9:00 pm
U.S. and Russian officials will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss ending the nearly three-year war in Ukraine, according to a U.S. lawmaker. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy stated Ukraine was not invited and would consult strategic partners before engaging with Russia. U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and others, will attend, but it’s unclear who will represent Russia. The talks aim to arrange further meetings. Penelope Kingsley 16/02/2025 9:00 pm
In Villach, Austria, a Syrian asylum seeker, radicalized online and swearing allegiance to Islamic State, carried out a stabbing attack, killing a 14-year-old and injuring five others. The suspect was arrested shortly after the attack, with an IS flag found in his apartment. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner emphasized the need for stricter asylum seeker screenings. A local Syrian delivery driver intervened, preventing further harm. IS has not claimed responsibility, but recent calls for lone wolf attacks have circulated. The incident follows a thwarted IS-related plot in Vienna. Residents express mixed feelings of resilience and insecurity. Penelope Kingsley 16/02/2025 5:30 pm
The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) rebel coalition, including M23, claims to have advanced into Bukavu, DRC’s second-largest city, capturing Kavumu airport and forcing government forces to retreat. This follows their alleged takeover of Goma. The DRC government hasn’t confirmed these claims. M23, accused of Rwandan backing, has been active since 2022, capturing resource-rich areas. Despite calls for a ceasefire, the rebels continue their territorial expansion. Residents report looting and fighters in Bukavu, but no confirmed fighting. Noah Prescott 16/02/2025 5:30 pm
A year after Alexei Navalny’s death in a Russian penal colony, the opposition struggles without its unifying leader. Navalny’s death left a significant void, hindering efforts to form a united front against President Putin. Rival factions have emerged, trading accusations and vying for influence. Navalny, known for his anti-corruption videos and charismatic leadership, inspired many with his vision of a democratic Russia. His death follows the 2015 assassination of Boris Nemtsov, another opposition leader. Navalny faced multiple criminal charges and attacks, including a near-blinding dye assault. Noah Prescott 16/02/2025 5:30 pm
Fifteen people died and 15 were injured in a stampede at New Delhi’s main railway station as pilgrims headed to the Kumbh Mela festival. Delayed trains caused overcrowding. Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences, and an investigation was ordered. The festival, held every three years, is larger this year due to a rare celestial event. Managing crowds is challenging; past events have also seen deadly stampedes. Ava Sinclair 16/02/2025 5:30 pm
A 14-year-old boy was killed and five others injured in an Islamist attack in Villach, Austria. A 23-year-old Syrian asylum seeker was detained, with links to the Islamic State group. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner confirmed the suspect was radicalized online. The attack has intensified debates over asylum laws, following a recent election where the far-right Freedom Party gained prominence. The party’s leader, Herbert Kickl, called for stricter asylum measures. Austria’s President is considering options for forming a government after the election. Ava Sinclair 16/02/2025 2:00 pm
A 37-year-old woman and her two-year-old daughter died after a car ramming in Munich, injuring 39 others during a Verdi union strike. The suspect, an Afghan citizen, was detained, and authorities suspect an “Islamist motive” but found no terrorist links. The attack occurred before elections focused on migration and security. Munich’s mayor and Bavaria’s premier expressed condolences, urging respectful discourse. The woman was a municipal employee advocating for union rights. Bavaria mourns the senseless tragedy. Penelope Kingsley 16/02/2025 2:00 pm
A senior U.S. team, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, will engage in talks in Saudi Arabia with Russian and Ukrainian negotiators to end the Ukraine war. This follows President Trump’s recent conversation with Russian President Putin about a ceasefire. Rubio, already in the Middle East, spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, reaffirming Trump’s commitment to resolving the conflict. The move surprised Kyiv and European allies, who fear exclusion from negotiations. Ava Sinclair 16/02/2025 2:00 pm
