In Sumy, Ukraine, a Russian missile attack during a military medal ceremony killed 35 and injured over 100, mostly civilians. Ukrainian soldier Oleksandr’s stepdaughter was critically injured. The attack, on Palm Sunday, intensified Ukrainian anger towards Russia and skepticism about U.S. diplomatic efforts, as it occurred shortly after a Trump envoy’s visit to Moscow. Oleksandr criticized the ceremony’s organizers, suggesting it attracted Russian attention. The incident highlighted the complexities of military operations in civilian areas, with both sides urged to minimize civilian harm under international law. Ava Sinclair 17/04/2025 2:00 am
An island-wide blackout hit Puerto Rico, leaving 1.4 million without power as residents prepared for Easter. Hotels operated on generators to accommodate tourists. At least 78,000 were without water, with full power restoration expected in 48-72 hours. The cause of the outage is unclear, sparking frustration and calls to cancel Luma and Genera PR’s contracts. Gov. Jenniffer González stated efforts are underway to resolve the issue. Penelope Kingsley 17/04/2025 2:00 am
Hungary’s recent ban on LGBTQ+ public events, enforced with facial recognition and fines, hasn’t deterred Hollywood from its tax incentives. Despite criticism from broadcasters, Hungary remains a top production hub, hosting films like “Dune: Part Two.” The muted response to the ban reflects a shift since 2021, with Hollywood adapting to conservative policies. An independent studio chief suggests only a major filmmaker or A-list actor’s refusal could impact filming in Hungary, drawing parallels to production in conservative U.S. states like Georgia and North Carolina. Penelope Kingsley 17/04/2025 2:00 am
Hungary, known for its right-wing stance and appeal as a filming location, has banned LGBTQ+ public events, enforcing it with facial recognition and fines. Despite criticism from broadcasters, Hollywood remains drawn to Hungary’s 30% production incentive, hosting films like “Dune: Part Two.” The muted response to the ban reflects a shift since 2021, with industry insiders noting that conservative laws in places like Georgia haven’t deterred productions. A major filmmaker or actor’s refusal to work there could impact Hungary’s film industry more than the current political climate. Penelope Kingsley 16/04/2025 10:30 pm
Former Peruvian President Ollanta Humala and his wife, Nadine Heredia, were sentenced to 15 years in prison for money laundering linked to the Odebrecht scandal. Heredia sought asylum at the Brazilian Embassy in Lima. Humala, president from 2011 to 2016, was convicted of receiving illegal campaign funds from Odebrecht and Venezuela’s Hugo Chávez. Both deny wrongdoing. Humala is the third Peruvian president jailed for corruption in two decades, highlighting Peru’s ongoing political corruption issues. Penelope Kingsley 16/04/2025 10:30 pm
Israel continues to block humanitarian aid to Gaza, aiming to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages from the 7 October attacks. Since 2 March, aid including food, fuel, and medicine has been restricted. Médecins Sans Frontières warns Gaza is becoming a “mass grave.” Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz insists no aid will enter until hostages are freed. Amnesty International condemns the blockade as a crime against humanity, which Israel denies. Over 51,000 Palestinians have died, with the humanitarian situation worsening. The issue remains politically charged in Israel. Noah Prescott 16/04/2025 10:30 pm
Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s envoy for Iran talks, clarified that the U.S. could accept Iran having a civilian nuclear program but insists on eliminating its nuclear enrichment and weapons program. He emphasized the need for a durable, fair deal ensuring Middle East stability. Witkoff’s comments followed backlash after suggesting uranium enrichment limits, reminiscent of the Obama-era nuclear deal. Recent talks in Oman explored trading sanctions relief for dismantling Iran’s nuclear weapons program. Israel advocates for a complete dismantling and seeks U.S. support for potential military action if Iran advances its nuclear capabilities. Penelope Kingsley 16/04/2025 7:00 pm
A Berlin doctor has been charged with murder for the deaths of 15 palliative care patients, allegedly administering fatal drug cocktails. Initially suspected in four deaths, evidence now links him to 15 between September 2021 and July 2022. The victims, aged 25 to 94, mostly died at home. The doctor, in custody since August, allegedly used anesthetics and muscle relaxers without consent, causing respiratory arrest. Prosecutors seek a life sentence with severe guilt, preventing release after 15 years. The Berlin state court will decide on proceeding to trial. Penelope Kingsley 16/04/2025 7:00 pm
The U.K. Supreme Court ruled that “woman” refers to someone born biologically female, excluding transgender individuals from this legal definition. This decision, celebrated by some women’s groups, clarifies that trans women can be excluded from certain single-sex spaces under the U.K. Equality Act. The ruling does not remove protections for trans people, who remain protected from discrimination based on gender reassignment. The case originated from a 2018 Scottish law requiring 50% female representation on public boards. Trans rights advocates have condemned the judgment. Ava Sinclair 16/04/2025 7:00 pm
“The Great Moose Migration,” a Swedish slow TV show, captivates viewers like Ulla Malmgren, who prepared to watch the 20-day, 24-hour event without missing a moment. The show, also known as “The Great Elk Trek,” began in 2019 and reached 9 million viewers in 2024. The livestream, starting early due to warm weather, captures moose swimming across the Ã…ngerman River during their spring migration. Fans appreciate the slow pace, finding it relaxing yet exciting. William Garp Liljefors, a dedicated fan, has collected over 150 moose plush toys. Noah Prescott 16/04/2025 7:00 pm
