Russia accused Ukraine of orchestrating a car bombing that killed General Yaroslav Moskalik in Moscow, marking another assassination linked to the military offensive. Kyiv hasn’t commented, but Russia’s foreign ministry suspects Ukrainian involvement, calling it “barbaric” and accusing Kyiv of escalating attacks. The blast coincided with US envoy Steve Witkoff’s visit to Moscow. Russia opened a murder probe, while Kyiv criticized Russia’s commitment to peace amid ongoing missile attacks. The incident resembles past attacks on figures associated with Russia’s offensive. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 11:30 pm
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has exhausted its food stocks in Gaza due to a seven-week Israeli blockade, which began on March 2. The blockade followed the collapse of a ceasefire, with Israel aiming to pressure Hamas. The WFP warns that food kitchens will soon run out, exacerbating already fragile markets and skyrocketing food prices by up to 1,400%. Vulnerable populations face severe nutrition concerns. The WFP urges immediate aid access, highlighting that over 116,000 tonnes of food are ready for delivery once borders reopen. Israel claims compliance with international law, denying an aid shortage. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 11:30 pm
Iran views its missile program as a bigger obstacle than uranium enrichment in nuclear talks with the U.S. Despite agreeing to draft a framework to resolve the nuclear standoff, Iran insists on maintaining its missile capabilities, which remains a sticking point. The U.S. demands Iran stop uranium enrichment, but Iran refuses to end its program or surrender enriched uranium. Iran’s official criticized the U.S. stance as unhelpful, emphasizing that missile capabilities are non-negotiable beyond the 2015 agreement. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 11:30 pm
On the eve of Pope Francis’ funeral Mass, his coffin was solemnly sealed after lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica. Around 250,000 mourners visited over three days. The ceremony, led by Cardinal-Camerlengo Kevin Farrell, included reading a document highlighting Francis’ life and achievements. Archbishop Diego Ravelli covered the Pope’s face with a white silk cloth, and a bag of coins and medals was placed in the coffin. The zinc coffin was sealed with various seals, and the wooden coffin was also sealed, bearing a cross and Francis’ coat of arms. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 11:30 pm
Sudanese people are resorting to eating leaves and charcoal after fleeing an attack on a displaced persons camp near el-Fasher, according to the Norwegian Refugee Council. Many are dying from thirst and exhaustion during the 40km journey to Tawila. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces attacked Zamzam camp, displacing tens of thousands. The ongoing conflict between the RSF and the army has created a severe humanitarian crisis, with reduced UN food aid due to funding issues. UK Foreign Minister David Lammy condemned the situation as potential ethnic cleansing. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 11:30 pm
The US and Iran are entering a challenging phase of nuclear talks, focusing on technical details. The US, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, opposes Iran enriching its own uranium, preferring it imports nuclear fuel. Iran insists on its right to enrich uranium. Previous talks were positive despite Trump’s military threats. The 2015 JCPOA deal, abandoned by Trump in 2018, limited Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions. Trump seeks a stronger deal, but US demands remain unclear, especially regarding Iran’s civilian nuclear program. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, later Pope Francis, frequently visited Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, even sneaking out to pray there after becoming pope in 2013. Despite a close encounter with a pickpocket, he cherished the basilica, visiting over 100 times during his papacy. After his death at 88, Francis chose a simple burial there, eschewing the traditional pomp of St. Peter’s Basilica, reflecting his desire for a modest, pastor-like farewell. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
A 2018 European Commission study highlights future conflicts over water access, identifying vulnerable hotspots like the Nile, Ganges-Brahmaputra, Indus, Tigris-Euphrates, and Colorado rivers. Climate change and population growth exacerbate competition for water, leading to potential “hydro-political issues.” Experts predict 21st-century conflicts will focus on water, unlike the oil-driven wars of the 20th century. Water’s critical role in survival and socio-economic growth heightens concerns, with treaties like the Indus Waters Treaty becoming crucial, especially for countries like Pakistan. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
The World Food Program’s food stocks in Gaza have depleted due to Israel’s blockade, affecting hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. The WFP delivered its last supplies to charity kitchens, which are expected to run out soon. Around 80% of Gaza’s population relies on these kitchens, which provide 644,000 meals daily. Israel’s blockade, aimed at pressuring Hamas, has been criticized as a “starvation tactic.” The Israeli military agency COGAT declined to comment on remaining supplies, while Israel accuses Hamas of diverting aid, a claim humanitarian workers dispute. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly militant attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir, which India attributes to Pakistan. Despite Pakistan’s denial, the incident has led to an exchange of fire across the Kashmir border. The UN has urged both nations to exercise restraint to prevent further deterioration. Friday’s gunfire ended without casualties, but Indian analysts predict potential military responses. The attack, targeting mostly Hindu tourists, was claimed by a group India alleges is backed by Pakistan. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
