President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs on over 180 countries took effect, starting at a 10% baseline. Announced on April 2, dubbed “Liberation Day,” the tariffs target rivals like China and allies in Europe and Asia. The EU faces a 20% tariff, India 26%, and China 104% after an additional 50% increase. China’s Commerce Ministry condemned the tariffs as “unilateral bullying” and imposed a 34% retaliatory tariff on US imports. The tariffs have unsettled markets since their announcement. Penelope Kingsley 09/04/2025 3:30 pm
Former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel was among 113 people killed when the Jet Set nightclub roof collapsed in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Over 300 people were inside during a merengue performance. Dotel, who played for 13 MLB teams and won the 2011 World Series with the Cardinals, died en route to the hospital. His academy mourned his loss, highlighting his impact on those who knew him. Penelope Kingsley 09/04/2025 3:30 pm
The Trump administration reversed its decision to cancel at least six U.S. foreign aid programs for emergency food assistance, reinstating awards to the World Food Programme in Lebanon, Syria, Somalia, Jordan, Iraq, and Ecuador. USAID Acting Deputy Administrator Jeremy Lewin, linked to Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, acknowledged the disruption caused by the rapid changes and took responsibility. The administration also resumed four awards to the International Organization for Migration in the Pacific. Previously, over $1.3 billion in aid to countries like Afghanistan and Yemen was cut. Penelope Kingsley 09/04/2025 3:30 pm
Germany’s conservatives and the Social Democrats are close to forming a coalition government, aiming for an agreement by midday Wednesday. Conservative leader Friedrich Merz and SPD’s Lars Klingbeil are addressing final differences amid financial market turmoil and trade tensions from U.S. tariffs. Finance Minister Joerg Kukies emphasized the urgency due to recession fears. The parties have agreed to support a free trade zone with the U.S. and are open to more trade deals. Merz plans to increase defense spending and support struggling businesses. Penelope Kingsley 09/04/2025 3:30 pm
Ukraine’s claim that Chinese nationals are fighting for Russia is “totally unfounded,” according to a Beijing official. Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy stated that two Chinese men were captured fighting with Russian forces, suggesting more might be involved. This is the first such claim by Ukraine. China supports Russia diplomatically and economically but is not believed to provide military aid. Meanwhile, the U.S. accuses Iran and North Korea of aiding Russia militarily. The conflict has evolved into a power struggle between global blocs. Ava Sinclair 09/04/2025 3:30 pm
Refaat Radwan recorded his final mission, capturing his last breaths while filming from an ambulance convoy searching for a missing PRCS ambulance. The convoy, clearly marked with emergency lights, found the missing vehicle, and medics, including Refaat, rushed to assist fallen colleagues. Israeli soldiers opened fire, killing eight PRCS workers and six Palestinian Civil Defence workers. Refaat was hit and, in his final moments, prayed and sought forgiveness from his mother for his chosen path. A ninth paramedic, Assaad al-Nassasra, was captured. Ashraf Abu Labda, a reassuring presence, was among the victims. Noah Prescott 09/04/2025 12:00 pm
A Teotihuacan altar used for sacrifices, likely of children, was discovered in Tikal National Park, Guatemala, revealing interactions between Teotihuacan and Mayan cultures. Announced by Guatemala’s Culture and Sports Ministry, the altar was found in Tikal, a city-state that contended with the Kaanul dynasty. Teotihuacan, near present-day Mexico City, was a major city from 100 B.C. to A.D. 750. Archaeologist Lorena Paiz led the 1.5-year excavation, uncovering remains of three children and an altar depicting the Storm Goddess. Penelope Kingsley 09/04/2025 12:00 pm
Eight people, including five children, died in South Sudan while seeking cholera treatment after U.S. aid cuts led to local health service closures, according to Save the Children. These deaths are linked to cuts by President Trump, aligning with his “America First” agenda. Experts warn these cuts could endanger millions due to diseases. The U.S. State Department claims many aid programs continue but criticizes South Sudan’s leadership for corruption. Penelope Kingsley 09/04/2025 12:00 pm
The U.S. government circulated a letter to embassies at the MEPC talks, seen by POLITICO, stating President Trump’s opposition to international environmental agreements that burden the U.S. The debate centers on taxing shipping emissions via a fuel standard or a universal levy. The U.S. opposes any form of carbon tax, emphasizing its stance against measures that could unfairly impact American interests. Penelope Kingsley 09/04/2025 12:00 pm
President Trump is considering deporting violent American criminals to El Salvador, a proposal discussed both publicly and privately. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that this would target repeat offenders, but emphasized it would only proceed if legally permissible. Trump expressed interest after El Salvador’s President Bukele showed willingness to accept them, though Trump acknowledged uncertainty about the legal feasibility. The idea aims for transparency but faces potential legal challenges. Ava Sinclair 09/04/2025 5:00 am
