A state of emergency has been declared in Santorini following a 5.2 magnitude earthquake amid ongoing tremors. The island, a major tourist destination, has seen around 11,000 people flee. Greek authorities have arranged additional flights for evacuation, though high winds initially hindered ferry services. Santorini, near the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, often experiences seismic activity, but rarely this intense. No major damage is reported, but precautions are underway. Nearby islands Amorgos and Ios are also affected. Prime Minister Mitsotakis urged cooperation with authorities. Noah Prescott 06/02/2025 4:00 pm
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu supports Trump’s proposal for the US to “take over” Gaza, suggesting it could create a better future. The plan involves relocating Gaza’s residents to neighboring countries and redeveloping the area. Critics argue it could violate international law and disrupt US foreign policy, which traditionally supports a two-state solution. Regional leaders and Palestinian officials reject the idea, emphasizing reconstruction with residents remaining. Israeli Defense Minister Katz instructed the military to prepare for the “voluntary departure” of Gaza residents, aligning with Trump’s initiative. Penelope Kingsley 06/02/2025 4:00 pm
Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo announced an agreement to accept migrants deported from the U.S., marking the second such deal during Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s Central America trip. The U.S. will cover the cost of returning deportees to their home countries. Guatemala will increase deportation flights by 40%. Previously, Guatemala accepted 7-8 flights weekly. El Salvador also agreed to accept U.S. deportees of any nationality, including American citizens and legal residents imprisoned for violent crimes. Penelope Kingsley 06/02/2025 12:30 pm
Since late December, North Korean ballistic missiles fired at Ukraine by Russian forces have shown increased precision, hitting targets within 50-100 meters. This suggests North Korea is using the conflict to test its missile technology, raising concerns about its potential threat to South Korea, Japan, and the U.S. Experts warn this could destabilize the region. North Korea’s military programs have advanced rapidly, but this is their first combat test. Ukraine and other involved parties have not commented on the situation. Penelope Kingsley 06/02/2025 12:30 pm
Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia will disconnect from the Russian power grid on Saturday, ending Soviet-era energy ties. A countdown in Vilnius marks their integration into the Western European grid. Lithuania’s Energy Minister highlights the move as a step against Russian geopolitical blackmail. Celebrations are planned, though some fear supply disruptions. Latvia will cut a power line to Russia, and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will attend a ceremony in Vilnius. The transition, accelerated by Russia’s 2022 Ukraine invasion, aims for energy independence and stability. Noah Prescott 06/02/2025 12:30 pm
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas rejected President Trump’s proposal for the US to take over Gaza and resettle its 2.1 million residents, calling it a violation of international law. Hamas and Arab states, including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, also opposed the plan. The proposal follows a fragile ceasefire in Gaza after a deadly conflict with Israel. Trump’s remarks, made alongside Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, marked a significant shift in US Middle East policy. The conflict has resulted in over 47,540 deaths and widespread devastation in Gaza. Ava Sinclair 06/02/2025 9:00 am
The Baltics are preparing for potential cyberattacks as they disconnect from the Soviet-era BRELL power grid with Russia and Belarus on February 9, switching to an EU network. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have been preparing for years, with Estonia ready to deploy its cyber reserve and working closely with its neighbors. Lithuania’s energy minister expects a smooth transition but is prepared for worst-case scenarios. Estonia’s Elering has enhanced security by removing VPN access and limiting physical access, while Lithuania has implemented anti-drone systems and physical barriers around key infrastructure. Ava Sinclair 06/02/2025 9:00 am
A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck between Amorgos and Santorini, following days of tremors. Over 11,000 people have evacuated Santorini, mostly locals due to the low tourist season. No major damage is reported, but precautionary measures are in place. Schools on Santorini and nearby islands are closed until further notice. Firefighters, special teams, and helicopters are on standby. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed confidence in the state’s crisis management and scientific guidance. Penelope Kingsley 06/02/2025 5:30 am
Donald Trump’s proposal for a US takeover of Gaza, involving resettling Palestinians elsewhere, sparked international outrage. Regional allies rejected it, while Israel’s far-right supported it. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned against “ethnic cleansing.” Germany and Brazil criticized the plan, and China opposed forced transfers. Despite global condemnation, Trump claimed widespread support. The plan envisions a “Riviera for the Middle East,” requiring Gaza’s depopulation. Neighboring countries reliant on US aid, like Egypt and Jordan, were expected to host displaced Palestinians. Saudi Arabia notably rejected the proposal. Ava Sinclair 06/02/2025 5:30 am
President Trump is testing Republican support for his aggressive “Make America Great Again” agenda, which challenges traditional party principles. Despite some dissent, most Republicans are backing his controversial Cabinet nominees and policies, even those previously opposed by the GOP. With Republican majorities in Congress, Trump is largely unchecked in reshaping the federal government and expanding presidential power. Conservative commentator Charlie Sykes notes the GOP’s “complete surrender” to Trump, as they avoid antagonizing him. Trump’s recent actions include threatening trade wars with Mexico and Canada. Noah Prescott 06/02/2025 5:30 am
