Following an offensive by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, 773 bodies were found in morgues around Goma, eastern Congo, with more on the streets. The conflict has left 2,880 wounded and worsened a humanitarian crisis, displacing thousands. M23 seized Goma and advanced towards Bukavu but faced resistance from Congolese and Burundian troops. Humanitarian efforts are hampered by looting and security issues, with Medecins Sans Frontieres and the World Food Programme facing shortages and suspending activities. The crisis stems from long-standing tensions following Rwanda’s 1994 genocide. Ava Sinclair 01/02/2025 8:30 pm
Keith Siegel, released from Hamas captivity, recounted his ordeal to Kan News. He was held in tunnels and civilian apartments, receiving little food and forced to eat meat despite being vegetarian. He learned his son Shai was alive via radio, contrary to what captors told him. Fellow captives Ofer Kalderon and Yarden Bibas faced beatings and psychological torture. Ofer requested a beer upon release but was advised against it due to health risks. Yarden’s captors falsely claimed his family was killed. Aviva Siegel, freed earlier, fought for Keith’s release, marking progress in ongoing hostage negotiations. Ava Sinclair 01/02/2025 8:30 pm
Five years ago, the U.K. left the EU, sparking mixed reactions: some celebrated sovereignty, while others mourned perceived isolation. The departure marked a significant national divide. Today, the U.K. continues to grapple with Brexit’s economic, social, and cultural impacts. Political scientist Anand Menon notes the profound effects still felt by people and businesses. Noah Prescott 01/02/2025 8:30 pm
Fighters with the RSF attacked Omdurman’s Sabrein market, killing 54 and wounding 158, according to Sudan’s health ministry. The culture minister condemned the attack, highlighting widespread destruction and casualties, including women and children. The RSF denied involvement. In Khartoum, two civilians died in an airstrike. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has killed over 28,000 and displaced millions, with famine declared in parts of Sudan. Atrocities, including ethnically motivated violence, have been reported, prompting ICC investigations into alleged war crimes. Ava Sinclair 01/02/2025 8:30 pm
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Central America, including Panama, aims to advance Trump’s “America First” policy, focusing on migration and regional issues. Rubio’s trip highlights the importance of engaging with neighboring countries and addressing migration challenges, especially after tensions between Trump and Colombian President Petro. Discussions will also cover the Panama Canal and countering China’s influence. However, efforts are complicated by a foreign assistance freeze. Rubio emphasizes cooperation with countries to manage migration, rewarding those that align with U.S. goals. Noah Prescott 01/02/2025 5:00 pm
Arab nations, including Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, the Palestinian Authority, and the Arab League, rejected U.S. President Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan. They emphasized that such plans threaten regional stability and peace prospects. The nations expressed commitment to a two-state solution and called for international support for Gaza’s reconstruction to ensure Palestinians remain on their land. Egyptian President el-Sissi also dismissed the relocation idea, advocating for a two-state resolution. Ava Sinclair 01/02/2025 5:00 pm
Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s first overseas trip to Panama highlights Central America’s struggles with President Trump’s aggressive policies, including military threats and mass deportations. The region faces economic challenges due to halted foreign aid and deportations. Michael E. Shifter notes the fragmentation in the region, making it vulnerable to U.S. tactics. Despite attempts to engage with Trump’s team, Latin America was largely ignored until Trump’s presidency, where he emphasized Panama. Rubio’s trip includes visits to Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic. Penelope Kingsley 01/02/2025 1:30 pm
In recent days, German politics have been marked by intense debates and protests. The Bundestag narrowly rejected a bill to tighten asylum laws, supported by CDU/CSU, AfD, FDP, and BSW. CDU’s Friedrich Merz passed a nonbinding asylum motion with AfD support, advocating controversial border controls. Despite public support for stricter migration policies, most oppose coalitions with AfD. With elections approaching, CDU leads polls, but Merz denies plans to work with AfD. Chancellor Scholz warns against following Austria’s path, where the far-right FPÖ may lead the government. Merkel criticized relying on AfD support. Ava Sinclair 01/02/2025 1:30 pm
Russia launched a drone and missile attack on Ukraine, killing eight and damaging infrastructure, including in Poltava, Kharkiv, and Sumy. A missile hit a residential building in Poltava, killing four. Kharkiv faced a drone attack, killing one. Three police officers died in Sumy. President Zelenskiy called for more air defense support. Russian forces targeted energy infrastructure, claiming to have downed 108 Ukrainian drones. The ongoing conflict has severely impacted Ukraine’s power sector, with both sides using drones to target infrastructure. Penelope Kingsley 01/02/2025 1:30 pm
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government presented a budget focusing on tax cuts for the middle class and boosting economic growth through agriculture and manufacturing. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized private investment, increased agricultural funding, and enhancing middle-class spending power. The budget aims for a 4.4% fiscal deficit by 2025-26. Despite slow growth due to manufacturing issues and inflation, India’s economy is forecasted to grow 6.3% to 6.8% next year. Key reforms include raising the income tax threshold and introducing a new tax bill to boost consumption and savings. Noah Prescott 01/02/2025 10:00 am
