A drone attack by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeted a military airport in Port Sudan, marking the first RSF strike in the city since the conflict began two years ago. The attack caused limited damage with no injuries reported. Port Sudan, previously a safe haven, became the de facto capital after the Sudanese Armed Forces lost Khartoum. The ongoing conflict, which started in April 2023, has resulted in 150,000 deaths and 12 million displaced. The UN labels Sudan’s crisis as the world’s most severe humanitarian disaster, with over 30 million needing aid. Noah Prescott 05/05/2025 4:00 am
British authorities are investigating two potentially state-sponsored plots involving mostly Iranian nationals in the UK. Eight people, including seven Iranians, were arrested. Three were detained under the UK’s 2023 National Security Act for suspected foreign power association. The plots are separate, but officials are exploring a possible connection. The CIA and U.S. National Intelligence Director’s office have not commented. Early Sunday, five men, four of Iranian descent, were arrested for an alleged UK terror plot. Ava Sinclair 05/05/2025 4:00 am
Romanians voted in a presidential election with hard-right candidate George Simion leading but not securing the 50% needed to avoid a runoff. Simion, leader of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), is known for his ultranationalist views and admiration for Donald Trump. His party, founded in 2019, gained popularity by opposing COVID-19 measures and promoting social conservatism. Despite being banned from Ukraine and Moldova, Simion insists he is pro-Romanian, not anti-Ukrainian. He challenges EU laws but supports Romania’s EU membership, rejecting the far-right label. Noah Prescott 05/05/2025 12:30 am
British counterterrorism officers arrested four Iranian men over a plot to attack an unspecified target and three others for a national security threat. Five men, aged 29-46, were detained under the Terrorism Act, with four being Iranian citizens. The plot targeted a single location, unnamed for operational reasons. Police are questioning suspects and searching properties in London, Manchester, and Swindon. Separately, three Iranian men were arrested in London for a national security offense. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper called these significant counterterrorism operations. Ava Sinclair 05/05/2025 12:30 am
Thirteen miners were found dead in a Peruvian gold mine after being kidnapped by a criminal gang aiming to control the mine. The victims, employed by mining company Poderosa, were sent to confront illegal miners but were held hostage and executed. Poderosa criticized the police for inadequate action against illegal mining, which has surged, leading to violence and operational disruptions. The company urged the government to restore order, highlighting the impunity with which organized crime operates in the region. Ava Sinclair 05/05/2025 12:30 am
Israel plans to control and restrict humanitarian aid in Gaza using U.S. security contractors, as a condition for lifting its blockade. The plan, supported by Israel’s government, is expected to be implemented soon, possibly during President Trump’s visit. However, the UN and aid organizations oppose it, citing humanitarian concerns and logistical issues. The plan involves allowing 60 trucks daily, a fraction of previous levels, inspected by the IDF and distributed under U.S. contractor protection. The situation threatens the lives of 2 million Palestinians facing food shortages. Ava Sinclair 04/05/2025 9:00 pm
Ukraine successfully downed two Russian Su-30 Flanker jets using uncrewed surface drones (USVs) equipped with American Sidewinder missiles in the Black Sea. This marks the first instance of fighter jets being shot down by USVs. Initial reports suggested the use of a Magura V5 drone, but it was actually the larger Magura V7 variant. This new capability, confirmed by Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov and President Zelenskyy, highlights the evolving role of USVs in modern warfare. The Magura V7 differs from previous models, which used AA-11 Archer missiles, showcasing advanced maritime drone technology. Noah Prescott 04/05/2025 9:00 pm
French police rescued the father of a cryptocurrency millionaire kidnapped in Paris. The victim, missing a finger, was found in Palaiseau. Four suspects were arrested, demanding a 5-7 million euro ransom. This is the third cryptocurrency-related abduction in France this year. Police tracked the kidnappers via phone signals. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau praised the investigators. The incident follows the abduction of Ledger co-founder David Balland and his wife, who were also rescued by police. Ava Sinclair 04/05/2025 9:00 pm
George Simion, leader of the hard-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians, is projected to win Romania’s presidential election first round with over 30% of the vote, according to exit polls. Crin Antonescu and Bucharest Mayor NicuÈ™or Dan are closely competing for second place to face Simion in the runoff. Former Prime Minister Victor Ponta is expected to finish fourth. Official results are pending, and diaspora votes are not included in the exit polls. The election is closely watched internationally, as Romania becomes a battleground between hard-right and establishment forces. Noah Prescott 04/05/2025 9:00 pm
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that there is no current need to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine and hopes it remains unnecessary. He emphasized Russia’s capability to conclude the conflict on its terms. Putin signed a revised nuclear doctrine in 2024, allowing nuclear response to conventional attacks by nuclear-backed powers. Meanwhile, Ukraine and Russia disagree on ceasefire terms, with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy criticizing Russia’s proposed 72-hour ceasefire as superficial and advocating for a more significant 30-day pause. Ava Sinclair 04/05/2025 9:00 pm
