Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned against fighting a nuclear power, condemning Western actions in Ukraine and globally during a U.N. General Assembly speech. This follows President Putin’s recent shift in nuclear doctrine, suggesting Russia might respond to conventional attacks with nuclear force if sovereignty is threatened. Lavrov accused the West of using Ukraine to strategically defeat Russia and preparing Europe for a dangerous conflict. The U.S. and EU labeled Putin’s statements as irresponsible, amidst Ukraine’s push for Western approval to use longer-range weapons against Russia. Ava Sinclair 29/09/2024 8:30 am
Austria’s upcoming election could see the far-right, pro-Russia Freedom Party (FPÖ), founded by former Nazis, win. This would have significant historical and geopolitical implications, potentially shifting the balance of power between Russia and the West. Austria, a neutral EU member, has long been a strategic crossroads in Europe. The FPÖ, led by Herbert Kickl, is criticized for xenophobia and its opposition to supporting Ukraine. Despite other parties refusing to form a coalition with them, a win would symbolize a broader far-right movement in Europe, fueled by migration and economic crises. Penelope Kingsley 29/09/2024 8:30 am
At least 66 people have died and 69 are missing in Nepal due to intense rainfall causing flooding and landslides, primarily around Kathmandu. Thousands of homes near rivers are flooded, highways blocked, and people stranded on rooftops. Over 200mm of rain since Friday has inundated rivers, leading to numerous fatalities. Landslides have caused several deaths, including a pregnant woman and a child in Bhaktapur. Six football players died in Makwanpur, and others were swept away by floodwaters. The death toll is expected to rise as rains continue. Ava Sinclair 29/09/2024 5:00 am
Austria’s far-right leader Herbert Kickl, resembling an amiable ski instructor, rallies supporters with promises of “five good years” ahead of a pivotal national election. His pro-Kremlin, anti-migration Freedom Party (FPÖ) is poised to win the most votes, capitalizing on fears around migration, crime, and economic issues. This marks a comeback for the FPÖ after the 2019 Ibiza scandal involving former leader Heinz-Christian Strache. The current ÖVP-Green coalition government has seen a significant decline, with the FPÖ leading in polls since late 2022 and winning the European Parliament elections in June. Ava Sinclair 29/09/2024 5:00 am
Tensions between Israel and Lebanon have escalated after Israel killed a Hezbollah commander in Beirut. Rockets were fired from Lebanon into Israel, causing explosions. In related events, Hamas leader Haniyeh was killed in Tehran, and Israeli airstrikes caused chaos in Beirut. Displaced Gazans returned to Khan Younis after an Israeli operation, and protests erupted in Tel Aviv and Washington against Israeli actions. The US President proposed a ceasefire plan for Gaza. Noah Prescott 29/09/2024 5:00 am
U.S. officials scrambled after an Israeli strike killed Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah, anticipating potential Iranian retaliation. President Biden called Nasrallah’s death “a measure of justice” for his role in killing Americans and others. The strike raised concerns about U.S.-Israel communication, as U.S. officials were unaware of the planned airstrike and a prior Israeli operation. Miscommunication persisted, with conflicting reports about a supposed 21-day cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, which never materialized. Penelope Kingsley 29/09/2024 1:30 am
Three days before China’s communist government turns 75, Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned against expanding the battlefield in Russia’s war with Ukraine and emphasized China’s commitment to shuttle diplomacy. He cautioned against nations exploiting the conflict, likely referencing the U.S. Wang’s speech at the U.N. General Assembly broke no new ground, consistent with China’s recent practices. Chinese President Xi Jinping has not attended the meeting in person for several years. On Friday, China and Brazil promoted their peace plan for Ukraine, with about a dozen countries noting the six-point plan. Penelope Kingsley 29/09/2024 1:30 am
Austria’s populist, anti-immigration Freedom Party (FPÖ) is expected to win in Sunday’s election, marking another far-right gain in Europe. Unlike newer far-right parties, the FPÖ has a long history in Austrian politics and has been part of coalition governments. Despite its likely win, it may need support from other parties to govern, who could instead unite to exclude it. Founded in 1956 by former Nazis, the FPÖ promotes anti-migrant, anti-Islam, Eurosceptic, and anti-vaxx views. It recently won the European Parliament elections in Austria and aims to leverage that success nationally. Ava Sinclair 28/09/2024 10:00 pm
Mr. Nasrallah, a key anti-Israel figure and Hezbollah leader, was killed, dealing a significant blow to the group. He served as a religious guide, political strategist, and commander, and his death deprives Hezbollah of his experience and unifying presence. Israel had tracked him for months, aiming to weaken Hezbollah and avoid a ground invasion. Despite his death, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues, with both sides vowing further attacks. President Biden called Nasrallah’s killing “a measure of justice” but urged for a diplomatic resolution to stabilize the region. The State Department has ordered family members of U.S. employees to leave. Noah Prescott 28/09/2024 10:00 pm
Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed that Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah’s death in an Israeli air strike “will not go unavenged,” declaring five days of mourning. An Iranian Revolutionary Guards general was also killed. Israel justified the strike, citing Nasrallah’s role in imminent attacks. The incident raises fears of regional war amid ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Khamenei has not yet promised retaliation, possibly to avoid war with Israel. He urged Muslim support for Hezbollah, emphasizing its role in the region’s future. Khamenei has been moved to a secure location. Noah Prescott 28/09/2024 10:00 pm
