Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth reassured Asian allies of U.S. commitment to deter Chinese threats during his first Asia trip. In Manila, he emphasized the Trump administration’s focus on the region, highlighting visits to the Philippines, Japan, Australia, and South Korea to establish deterrence. Hegseth addressed concerns over U.S. alliances amid tensions in the South China Sea and East China Sea. He met with Philippine President Marcos Jr., stressing the need for deterrence against Chinese threats. Noah Prescott 28/03/2025 4:30 pm
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing building collapses in Myanmar and Thailand, where Bangkok was declared an “emergency zone.” Videos showed panicked residents fleeing swaying buildings. Tremors were felt in China’s Yunnan province. Myanmar’s junta declared an emergency in areas including Mandalay and Naypyidaw. In Taungoo, three died in a mosque collapse. Thailand’s prime minister declared an emergency in Bangkok after a building collapse killed one and injured 50. Rescue efforts are ongoing. Myanmar, already struggling from civil war, faces challenges due to weak infrastructure. Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 1:00 pm
King Charles III was seen smiling and waving in London after a brief hospital stay due to side effects from cancer treatment. His appointments were canceled following the hospitalization. Diagnosed with cancer last year, Charles, 76, has been under public scrutiny. Despite stepping back from public engagements for three months, he continued state duties. His health issues add pressure on the monarchy as it evolves post-Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. Charles’ role involves numerous ceremonial duties, totaling 161 days of engagements in his first year as king. Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 1:00 pm
Former police officer Kristian White avoided jail after being found guilty of manslaughter for Tasering 95-year-old Clare Nowland, who had dementia symptoms, at an Australian care home. White claimed he used the Taser to prevent a “violent confrontation” when Nowland, holding a small knife, was disoriented. The jury deemed his actions “grossly disproportionate,” sparking public outcry. Justice Ian Harrison called it a “terrible mistake,” noting Nowland posed no real threat. White expressed devastation over her death, while Nowland’s family condemned his actions as “inhumane.” Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 1:00 pm
Pope Francis faced a severe health crisis with pneumonia, experiencing dangerously low oxygen levels and refusing intubation. His doctors, led by Dr. Sergio Alfieri, opted for aggressive drug treatment despite potential organ damage. The pope’s personal nurse consented to this approach. Although Francis initially improved, he later choked on food, risking further lung complications. Despite these challenges, he ultimately recovered after 38 days in the hospital. Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 1:00 pm
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, visiting the Philippines, emphasized strengthening global deterrence, particularly against China’s South China Sea aggression. He criticized the previous Biden administration for emboldening aggressors and highlighted the Trump administration’s efforts to rebuild the U.S. military and its “warrior ethos.” Hegseth stressed the need for strong alliances, especially in the Indo-Pacific, to ensure free navigation and deter conflict, following discussions with Philippine officials, including President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 1:00 pm
Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized US President Donald Trump’s aggressive stance on Greenland, highlighting rising Arctic tensions. Trump reiterated his desire to control Greenland, a Danish territory, suggesting force if necessary. Denmark’s Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen rejected Trump’s position. US Vice President JD Vance plans an uninvited visit to Greenland. Putin, amid conflict in Ukraine, claimed Russia never threatened the Arctic but vowed to defend its interests by expanding military presence and infrastructure in the region. Ava Sinclair 28/03/2025 9:30 am
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake in central Myanmar caused significant tremors in Thailand, leading to the collapse of a building in Bangkok’s Chatuchak Park. Dramatic footage showed construction workers fleeing as the building, under construction, crumbled, resulting in one death and 50 injuries. Despite the quake, Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport continued operations. In Myanmar, particularly in Mandalay, witnesses reported multiple building collapses, including a five-story structure. The quake’s epicenter was near Sagaing, Myanmar. Ava Sinclair 28/03/2025 9:30 am
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Guam, addressing troops and WWII veterans about the Defense Department’s focus on restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding the military, and reestablishing deterrence. Speaking at Andersen Air Force Base, he highlighted the Indo-Pacific’s strategic importance, calling it the “tip of the spear.” Hegseth emphasized readiness for potential conflicts, stressing that strength deters war, aligning with the motto, “Those who long for peace must prepare for war.” He assured that the military’s preparedness is crucial for peace and deterrence. Noah Prescott 28/03/2025 6:00 am
Suspected U.S. airstrikes targeted Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen, including Sanaa, early Friday. The strikes, reportedly more intense than previous ones, aimed at both launch sites and ranking personnel. Initial reports indicated at least seven injuries in Sanaa. Other targets included Hodeida, Saada, and Amran. The Houthis reported communication disruptions and damage to military and civilian areas, including Sanaa International Airport. The strikes occurred during the final days of Ramadan, with significant damage observed in various regions. Noah Prescott 28/03/2025 2:30 am
