New satellite images reveal North Korea’s largest warship under construction at Nampo shipyard, potentially over twice the size of existing vessels. Analysts suggest it’s a 140-meter guided-missile frigate with vertical launch tubes for land and sea targets. Despite UN sanctions, North Korea’s military modernization continues, possibly aided by closer ties with Russia. The ship, inspected by Kim Jong Un, may feature advanced weaponry and phased-array radar, enhancing tracking capabilities. Ava Sinclair 14/04/2025 2:30 pm
World leaders condemned a deadly Russian missile strike on Ukraine’s city of Sumy, killing 34 and injuring over 100. U.S. President Trump called it a “horrible thing” and a “mistake,” emphasizing the war’s overall tragedy. The attack occurred shortly after U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff’s visit to Russia to discuss ending the conflict. Trump, speaking on Air Force One, reiterated the strike was a “mistake” but did not elaborate further. Penelope Kingsley 14/04/2025 11:00 am
Chinese leader Xi Jinping began a diplomatic tour in Southeast Asia with a visit to Vietnam, emphasizing China’s commitment to global trade amid U.S. tariffs. Despite some tariff pauses, the U.S. maintains high tariffs on China. Xi aims to present China as a “responsible superpower” contrasting with the U.S. under Trump, and to strengthen alliances and address trade barriers. Xi stressed the importance of safeguarding multilateral trade and stable supply chains. His visit, likely planned earlier, gains significance due to the ongoing U.S.-China tariff conflict. Ava Sinclair 14/04/2025 11:00 am
The trial of South Korea’s ousted leader Yoon Suk Yeol began over charges of insurrection after declaring martial law, which was quickly lifted. Prosecutors argue Yoon lacked legal grounds and aimed to paralyze state institutions. Yoon denies the charges, claiming martial law was necessary against a “legislative dictatorship.” The Constitutional Court removed him for violating constitutional powers, causing societal chaos. Yoon remains defiant, supported by conservatives, while the opposition criticizes him. A snap election is set for June 3, with Yoon’s future role uncertain. Ava Sinclair 14/04/2025 11:00 am
Hungarian lawmakers are set to vote on a constitutional amendment that restricts LGBTQ+ rights, likely passing due to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party majority. The amendment bans public LGBTQ+ events, including Budapest Pride, and supports a law prohibiting the “depiction or promotion” of homosexuality to minors. It also allows for facial recognition to identify attendees of banned events and imposes fines. Additionally, it denies the gender identities of transgender and intersex individuals, aligning with previous anti-LGBTQ+ measures reminiscent of Russian policies. Critics argue it violates constitutional rights. Penelope Kingsley 14/04/2025 7:30 am
Chinese companies face a “high trust bar” for investing in key U.K. sectors, said Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds. This follows the government’s intervention in British Steel, owned by China’s Jingye Group, to prevent the closure of blast furnaces in Scunthorpe. Jingye was accused of not negotiating in good faith and intending to close the furnaces while maintaining profitable operations. A new law empowers the government to manage British Steel’s operations and ensure continued employment for its 3,000 workers. Reynolds expressed caution about Chinese investment in sensitive areas like steel. Noah Prescott 14/04/2025 7:30 am
In Sudan, paramilitaries have killed over 200 civilians in attacks around El Fasher and displacement camps. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are accused of genocide, targeting civilians and aid workers, including the entire medical staff at Zamzam camp. The conflict has split Sudan, with the army controlling the north and east, and RSF dominating Darfur and the south. The violence has displaced millions, creating a severe humanitarian crisis. The UK foreign secretary faces pressure to address civilian protection at an upcoming conference, urging international condemnation, especially from the UAE, a former RSF supporter. Ava Sinclair 14/04/2025 7:30 am
An Israeli air strike destroyed parts of al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, targeting a Hamas “command and control centre,” according to the IDF. The strike damaged the intensive care and surgery departments, forcing the evacuation of patients and staff. No casualties were reported, but a child died during the rushed evacuation. Surrounding buildings, including St Philip’s church, were also damaged. The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, which runs the hospital, condemned the attack, especially as it occurred during Holy Week. The IDF claimed efforts were made to minimize civilian harm. Penelope Kingsley 14/04/2025 7:30 am
Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa won the presidential election, defeating Luisa González amid drug-fueled violence. With 90% of votes counted, the trend favored Noboa, who aims to combat crime and revitalize the economy under the “New Ecuador” slogan. Security was a major voter concern, with 45,000 troops deployed on election day. Noboa, seeking a full term, has declared states of emergency and tackled gang activity, but Ecuador faces unprecedented violence, with over 1,000 homicides this year and the highest homicide rate in Latin America. Noah Prescott 14/04/2025 7:30 am
Friedrich Merz, Germany’s likely next chancellor, accused Russian President Putin of war crimes after a missile attack in Sumy, Ukraine. Merz criticized those advocating for peace talks with Putin, viewing it as a sign of weakness. He supports supplying Ukraine with Taurus missiles, aligning with European allies, despite outgoing Chancellor Scholz’s refusal due to escalation risks. Merz’s CDU/CSU coalition with SPD faces criticism from former Ukrainian Ambassador Melnyk for lacking concrete military support for Ukraine. The coalition promises to strengthen military and political support for Ukraine. Ava Sinclair 14/04/2025 7:30 am
