Ukraine sanctioned three Chinese companies after President Zelenskiy accused China of supplying weapons to Russia, a claim China denies. The sanctioned firms, Beijing Aviation And Aerospace Xianghui Technology, Rui Jin Machinery, and Zhongfu Shenying Carbon Fiber Xining, are barred from business in Ukraine. Zelenskiy alleged Chinese firms provided artillery and gunpowder to Russia, but offered no evidence. Previously, he claimed Chinese nationals were fighting for Russia. Despite tensions, Ukraine and China maintain significant trade relations. Ava Sinclair 18/04/2025 4:30 pm
U.S. airstrikes on Yemen’s Ras Isa oil port, held by Houthi rebels, killed 20 and injured 50, marking a significant toll in the campaign under President Trump. The Houthis launched a missile toward Israel, intercepted by Israeli forces. The U.S. accused a Chinese satellite company of aiding Houthi attacks, which China did not confirm. The strikes aimed to cut off Houthi funding from oil revenues. Graphic footage showed the aftermath, with casualties including paramedics and civilians. Noah Prescott 18/04/2025 4:30 pm
Hamas rejected Israel’s ceasefire proposal, demanding a comprehensive deal ensuring war’s end and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Hamas’s Khalil al-Hayya criticized Israel’s conditions, including disarmament, as unacceptable. Israel proposed releasing 10 hostages for a 45-day ceasefire and prisoner exchange, but Hamas insists on a full package deal. Israeli troops control 30% of Gaza, with ongoing violence. Mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the US have stalled. Israel’s defense minister and finance minister advocate for intensified military action if hostages aren’t returned. Penelope Kingsley 18/04/2025 4:30 pm
A poignant photo of Mahmoud Ajjour, a 9-year-old Palestinian boy who lost both arms in an Israeli strike, won the 2025 World Press Photo of the Year. Captured by Samar Abu Elouf, the image highlights the devastating impact of the conflict in Gaza, where over 51,000 have died since October 2023. Ajjour, evacuated to Doha for treatment, symbolizes the plight of hundreds of children who have lost limbs. UNICEF reports over 1,000 children have had amputations since the conflict’s escalation, raising global concern over the humanitarian crisis. Ava Sinclair 18/04/2025 4:30 pm
A domestic flight in Belize turned chaotic when Akinyela Sawa Taylor attempted a hijacking, stabbing multiple people, including the pilot. An armed passenger intervened, fatally shooting Taylor. The plane, initially off course, landed safely in Ladyville, averting a potential mass casualty event. Authorities are investigating how Taylor boarded with a weapon and his motives. Noah Prescott 18/04/2025 4:30 pm
The week focused on President Trump, particularly the controversy over Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s deportation. Trump met with El Salvador’s President Bukele, with both sides deflecting responsibility for Garcia’s return. The Supreme Court mandated the U.S. to facilitate his return, but Bukele was hesitant. Additionally, concerns about Trump’s tariffs were highlighted by the Federal Reserve chair, predicting higher prices. Tensions also rose between the scientific community and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new health and human services secretary, following his controversial statements. Ava Sinclair 18/04/2025 1:00 pm
At least 37 people, including children, were killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza, primarily in al-Mawasi where displaced civilians had set up tents. Witnesses reported tents engulfed in flames after a powerful explosion. Israel had advised Palestinians to evacuate to al-Mawasi. UNICEF condemned the incident, highlighting the impact on children. Hamas rejected Israel’s ceasefire proposal, seeking a deal for all hostages’ release. Israel aims to disarm and destroy Hamas. The strikes killed at least 16, mostly women and children, and injured 23 others. Ava Sinclair 18/04/2025 1:00 pm
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that the Trump administration might abandon Ukraine ceasefire talks if a deal seems impossible. Speaking in Paris, Rubio emphasized the urgency of determining the feasibility of an agreement within days. His comments reflect growing impatience as President Trump had pledged to swiftly end Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, but recent talks with Moscow have stalled. The U.S. remains committed to facilitating a resolution but is prepared to shift focus if necessary. Ava Sinclair 18/04/2025 1:00 pm
JK Rowling celebrated a UK court ruling that trans women are not legally women, praising three Scottish women and For Women Scotland for their efforts. She expressed pride in supporting the organization and shared celebratory tweets, including a photo of herself with a cigar and drink on a yacht. Rowling, known for advocating women’s rights, has faced accusations of transphobia due to past comments. She previously criticized language in an article about menstruation, sparking controversy. Ava Sinclair 18/04/2025 9:30 am
U.S. President Donald Trump will abandon efforts to broker a Russia-Ukraine peace deal within days if no clear progress is made, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Speaking in Paris, Rubio emphasized the urgency of determining the deal’s feasibility quickly, highlighting Trump’s commitment but also the need to focus on other pressing issues. This warning comes amid some signs of progress in U.S. diplomatic efforts. Noah Prescott 18/04/2025 9:30 am
