Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna was captured in 2023 and later declared dead by Russian authorities in 2024. Her body, misidentified as an “unidentified male,” was returned to Ukraine, revealing signs of torture, including abrasions, bruises, a broken rib, and possible electric shock. An investigation found a 99% DNA match with Roshchyna. Missing organs and a suspected hyoid bone fracture suggested strangulation. The Ukrainian Prosecutor General’s Office is investigating, suspecting torture and abuse during her captivity. Penelope Kingsley 30/04/2025 7:00 pm
At least three people died in Spain due to a massive power cut that affected the country and parts of Portugal, Andorra, and France. In Taboadela, a married couple and their son were found dead, possibly from carbon monoxide poisoning linked to a faulty generator. In Madrid, a woman died in a fire possibly caused by a candle during the blackout. Another woman in Valencia died, possibly due to a ventilator failure. The blackout caused widespread disruption, halting metro systems and disabling traffic lights. Penelope Kingsley 30/04/2025 7:00 pm
Kai-Ji Adam Lo, accused of killing 11 at a Vancouver festival, was on “extended leave” under mental health care. Vancouver Coastal Health stated he was monitored by a mental health team, which can recall patients if they don’t follow treatment plans. Authorities noted Lo’s history of mental health issues, suggesting it as a motive. Despite this, VCH found no indication he was a public safety risk. The incident occurred at the Lapu Lapu Day block party, killing 11, including Toan Le’s family members, and injuring over two dozen. Witnesses reported chaos and revving engines. Noah Prescott 30/04/2025 7:00 pm
At least 11 people were killed in clashes near Damascus, marking the second day of fighting in Druze-majority areas. The violence began in Ashrafiah Sahnaya after gunmen attacked a security checkpoint. A previous attack in Jaramana left 10 dead. Israel struck an extremist group threatening Druze communities, asserting protection for them, though Syrian Druze did not request this. Tensions rise as Syria’s government and Druze leaders negotiate integration, complicated by demands for autonomy and distrust of the new government led by Ahmad al-Sharaa. A fake audio clip insulting Islam’s prophet sparked the violence. Ava Sinclair 30/04/2025 3:30 pm
An explosion at Iran’s Shahid Rajaei port killed at least 70 and injured over 1,000. The blast’s epicenter was a facility owned by Bonyad Mostazafan, a foundation linked to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and sanctioned by the U.S. for enriching his office and supporting the Revolutionary Guard. The cause remains unknown, but reports suggest a mysterious explosive cargo. Bonyads, powerful foundations in Iran, manage assets seized post-1979 revolution. Bonyad Mostazafan, Iran’s largest, holds significant economic influence, with interests in various industries. Noah Prescott 30/04/2025 3:30 pm
Iran will meet with European parties in Rome on Friday to discuss the 2015 nuclear deal, ahead of U.S.-Iran negotiations. The E3 (Britain, France, Germany) remained committed to the deal, which the U.S. exited in 2018 under Trump. Despite initial hesitation, the E3 decided to engage with Iran to maintain dialogue and outline a new deal. Meanwhile, U.S. officials briefed European diplomats in Berlin on past negotiations. Ava Sinclair 30/04/2025 3:30 pm
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir, with India accusing Pakistan of involvement, which Pakistan denies. Diplomatic ties have been downgraded, and both nations have expelled each other’s nationals. India hints at a possible military strike, while Pakistan vows to respond. Both countries possess nuclear weapons as deterrents; India follows a “no first use” policy, while Pakistan’s strategy includes potential first use if threatened. Despite past conflicts, Pakistan is cautious due to India’s superior military strength. Ava Sinclair 30/04/2025 3:30 pm
A US official defended Israel’s attacks on UN agencies in Gaza at the ICJ, arguing they might be lawful amid a near two-month humanitarian aid ban. The US rejected claims that Israel breached international law, citing security concerns and questioning Unrwa’s impartiality. The ICJ hearings were prompted by Israel’s ban on Unrwa, sparking global outrage. The US argued that international law doesn’t impose absolute obligations on occupying powers regarding humanitarian aid, referencing Article 59 of the Fourth Geneva Convention. Israel accused Unrwa staff of aiding Hamas, though a UN inquiry found no evidence. Penelope Kingsley 30/04/2025 3:30 pm
The Shenzhou 19 mission returned to Earth on April 30 after six months in orbit. Astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong, and Wang Haoze undocked from the Tiangong space station on April 29 and landed at Dongfeng in Inner Mongolia on April 30. The landing was delayed by a day due to windy weather. The crew launched on October 29 and achieved significant milestones during their mission. Noah Prescott 30/04/2025 3:30 pm
Erin Patterson, 50, is on trial in Morwell, Australia, accused of murdering three relatives and attempting to murder another by serving a toxic mushroom meal. She admits to picking wild mushrooms, lying to police, and disposing of evidence but claims it was an accident. Prosecutors allege she deliberately poisoned her guests, citing her actions to conceal the incident. The trial will include testimonies from various witnesses, but the prosecution will not suggest a specific motive. Patterson has pleaded not guilty, asserting she panicked after unintentionally poisoning her loved ones. Noah Prescott 30/04/2025 12:00 pm
