A Russian strike on a residential building in Poltava, Ukraine, killed at least 14 people, including two children. Ukrainian President Zelensky condemned it as a “terrorist crime.” Among the victims were Olena Yavorska, her husband, and their daughter. Emergency services are aiding nearly 200 people. Meanwhile, Ukraine and Russia exchanged blame over a deadly strike on a former boarding school in Russia’s Kursk region, with both sides accusing each other of committing a “war crime.” Rescue operations continue amid ongoing conflict. Ava Sinclair 02/02/2025 9:00 pm
A series of over 200 earthquakes near Santorini has led to school closures and precautionary measures, including draining swimming pools to prevent structural instability. The strongest quake was magnitude 4.6. Despite no damage or casualties, locals remain anxious. Authorities, including earthquake experts and rescue teams, are actively monitoring the situation, advising residents to avoid large gatherings and be cautious of rockfalls. Meetings with government and military officials are ongoing to assess and respond to the situation. Noah Prescott 02/02/2025 9:00 pm
The European Union has warned U.S. President Donald Trump of retaliation if he imposes tariffs on EU goods. The European Commission expressed regret over Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, and noted the significant trade relationship between the EU and the U.S. A Commission spokesperson emphasized that tariffs cause economic disruption and inflation. The EU is prepared to respond firmly to any unfair tariffs. France’s Industry Minister Marc Ferracci called for a strong response from Brussels, which handles trade for the EU’s 27 members. Noah Prescott 02/02/2025 9:00 pm
An Israeli strike on a vehicle in Gaza wounded four Palestinians, initially reported as killing a boy who was later resuscitated. The Israeli military targeted a “suspicious” vehicle outside the ceasefire inspection route. Since the ceasefire began on Jan. 19, several Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire, which Israel claims were threats. Hamas calls these actions truce violations. Negotiations are ongoing for hostage releases and Israeli troop withdrawal. Hamas accuses Israel of delaying humanitarian aid, urging mediators to enforce the agreement. Ava Sinclair 02/02/2025 5:30 pm
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Panama’s president amid tensions over President Trump’s demand to reclaim the Panama Canal. While Rubio took a diplomatic approach, protests erupted in Panama City against U.S. intentions. Panama’s President Mulino stated there would be no negotiations over canal ownership. Rubio’s visit aimed to address shared interests like migration and drug trafficking, but he also emphasized Trump’s focus on curbing illegal immigration and countering China’s influence. Protests highlighted Panamanian resistance to U.S. demands, with demonstrators advocating for national sovereignty. Penelope Kingsley 02/02/2025 5:30 pm
North Korean troops, deployed to Russia, are proving capable and fierce in high-cost “human wave” assaults. This conflict offers North Korea a chance to learn modern warfare tactics. Despite outdated methods, their soldiers are relentless and determined. Disguised as Russian soldiers, 11,000 North Korean special operations forces, including the elite Storm Corps, are involved. These troops are highly motivated and well-trained, providing valuable insights into modern combat for North Korea. This marks North Korea’s largest military deployment to a foreign conflict in its history. Penelope Kingsley 02/02/2025 5:30 pm
A Russian delegation arrived in Damascus to negotiate maintaining military bases in Syria after rebels ousted Bashar al-Assad. They faced Ahmed al-Shara, Syria’s new interim leader, marking the first talks between Moscow and Damascus post-war. The discussions were unresolved but signaled the start of negotiations on Russia’s future role in Syria. This geopolitical maneuvering could reshape the Middle East, with Syria seeking legitimacy and aid through pragmatic diplomacy. Charles Lister noted Syria’s focus on de-escalation and pragmatism, avoiding further conflicts. Ava Sinclair 02/02/2025 2:00 pm
Syria’s interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, made his first international trip to Saudi Arabia, signaling a potential shift away from Iran. Al-Sharaa, once linked to al-Qaida, met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This visit marks a significant change in regional dynamics, as Saudi Arabia previously supported insurgent groups against Assad. Al-Sharaa’s group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has distanced itself from al-Qaida and is managing its public image, including maintaining distance from Iran and Russia. Iran has yet to reopen its embassy in Damascus. Noah Prescott 02/02/2025 2:00 pm
On November 1, Aleksandar Matkovic witnessed a tragic station canopy collapse in Novi Sad, Serbia, killing 15 people. The incident sparked widespread anger and protests against perceived state corruption under President Aleksandar Vucic’s government. The student-led demonstrations demand transparency about the reconstruction works and have grown significantly, questioning Vucic’s long-standing rule. Vucic, in power since 2014, has faced criticism for eroding Serbian democracy. The protests have become a symbol of broader discontent across the nation. Noah Prescott 02/02/2025 10:30 am
The second phase of hostage negotiations will start Monday in Doha, with mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the US. Prime Minister Netanyahu will discuss the issue with President Trump in Washington. Hamas accuses Israel of obstructing the process. The first phase, agreed in January, involved releasing 33 Hamas hostages and thousands of Palestinian prisoners. Thirteen hostages have been freed, with more set for release. Egyptian and Qatari mediators criticized Israel’s handling of the ceasefire agreement. Noah Prescott 02/02/2025 10:30 am
