Secretary Rubio expressed a desire for the Panama Canal to remain a neutral zone, free from foreign control, particularly Chinese influence, to ensure it can’t be used against the U.S. in conflicts. He emphasized exploring various options to achieve this. Regarding USAID, Rubio criticized the agency for acting like a global charity rather than a U.S. government entity, often undermining State Department efforts and upsetting host governments. Penelope Kingsley 04/02/2025 4:30 am
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele has agreed to accept deportees from the U.S., including violent American criminals, regardless of nationality. This unprecedented agreement was revealed during a signing ceremony for a separate civil nuclear deal. Despite Bukele’s offer, a U.S. official stated there are no current plans to deport American citizens, but acknowledged the significance of the offer. Penelope Kingsley 04/02/2025 4:30 am
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Panama’s decision to let its participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative expire, viewing it as a positive step for U.S.-Panama relations. This move aligns with Washington’s stance against China’s “debt trap diplomacy.” During his visit to Panama, Rubio discussed the issue with President Jose Raul Mulino, who indicated the agreement might end early. Panama initially joined the initiative in 2017 after switching diplomatic ties from Taiwan to China. Noah Prescott 04/02/2025 1:00 am
Armen Sarkisyan, founder of the pro-Russian Arbat Battalion in eastern Ukraine, died from a bombing in Moscow. Known as a “criminal mastermind” by Kyiv, Sarkisyan was involved in countering Wagner Group’s influence. He was an ally of ex-Ukrainian President Yanukovych and wanted for his role in 2014 protests. The explosion occurred at an upscale Moscow complex. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that investigations are ongoing, with no further comments available. Noah Prescott 04/02/2025 1:00 am
The U.N. Human Rights Monitoring Mission reported a significant increase in executions of captured Ukrainian soldiers by Russian forces, with 79 killed in 24 incidents since last August. Witnesses described Ukrainian soldiers being shot on the spot, including unarmed and injured individuals. The mission also noted a case of a wounded Russian soldier executed by Ukrainian forces. These findings were based on video, photo analysis, and witness interviews, indicating executions occurred in areas of Russian military operations. Penelope Kingsley 04/02/2025 1:00 am
Keith Siegel, a 65-year-old US-Israeli dual citizen, endured 15 months of captivity under Hamas, deprived of food and sunlight, leading to significant weight loss. Freed recently, he is eager to assist remaining hostages. His daughter, Shir, highlighted his inhumane conditions. Siegel drew strength from Israeli rallies demanding hostage releases but was saddened by the division they caused. His wife, Aviva, thanked President Trump for his role in Siegel’s release as part of a cease-fire deal. The couple was kidnapped from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, with Aviva released earlier. Noah Prescott 03/02/2025 9:30 pm
The G7 Foreign Ministers and the EU High Representative condemn the Rwanda-backed M23 offensive in eastern DRC, urging M23 and the Rwanda Defense Force to cease hostilities and protect civilians. They demand an end to support for M23 and other armed groups, highlighting the offensive’s violation of DRC sovereignty and its humanitarian impact. The G7 calls for safe humanitarian access, urges a return to negotiations, and supports MONUSCO’s mission to stabilize the region, emphasizing that attacks on peacekeepers are unacceptable. Penelope Kingsley 03/02/2025 9:30 pm
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with US envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss the second phase of the Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal. Talks may extend phase one, continuing the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. The negotiation mechanism is shifting to shuttle diplomacy, with Witkoff mediating between Israelis, Qataris, and Egyptians. Leadership changes in the Israeli team see Netanyahu and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer taking charge, focusing on diplomatic aspects related to Gaza’s future and potential Saudi normalization. Critics warn Netanyahu’s involvement could politicize and jeopardize negotiations. Noah Prescott 03/02/2025 9:30 pm
Panama will not renew its agreement with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, following discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino announced the decision, citing US concerns over Chinese influence on the Panama Canal. Mulino expressed interest in US infrastructure investment instead. This move aligns with US efforts to counter China’s global influence and follows President Trump’s threats regarding the canal. Rubio praised Panama’s decision as a positive step for US-Panama relations and emphasized the importance of canal neutrality. Ava Sinclair 03/02/2025 9:30 pm
Armen Sargsyan, leader of the pro-Russian “Arbat” battalion, died in a Moscow hospital after being injured in an explosion. The blast occurred in a residential building, also injuring others, including a bodyguard. Sargsyan was wanted by Ukraine for recruiting prisoners and alleged murders. The explosion is considered a planned assassination, with investigations ongoing. Sargsyan was part of former Ukrainian President Yanukovych’s circle and led a special forces battalion. The incident has raised security concerns among local residents. Ava Sinclair 03/02/2025 6:00 pm
