A quick summary of significant news items from around the world
Trump’s Tariff Policies Cause Global Trade Concerns
The United Nations economists predict that the tariffs imposed by the United States could shrink global trade by approximately 3%. This comes as China retaliated with 125% tariffs on U.S. goods. While the EU paused its counter-tariffs, the overall impact on the global economy remains a concern.
U.S.-Iran Nuclear Talks Underway in Oman
Amidst escalating tensions, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff met with a senior Iranian leader in Oman to discuss Tehran’s nuclear program. President Trump reiterated his stance that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.
European Nations Pledge More Military Aid to Ukraine
Several European countries have vowed to provide billions of dollars in additional military support to Ukraine as the conflict with Russia continues. A U.S. envoy also met with Russian President Putin to discuss a potential ceasefire.
Tensions Rise Between Taiwan and China
Taiwan reported detecting 34 Chinese military sorties and 6 naval vessels around its territory, with several incursions into Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone.
Bomb Blast Near Athens Train Office
An explosion occurred near the main offices of the Greek railway company in Athens. While there were no immediate reports of injuries, the incident is being investigated amidst recent protests related to a past rail disaster.
Gaza Conflict Continues
The United Nations reported that Israeli strikes on Gaza between March 18 and April 9 killed only Palestinian women and children in at least 36 incidents. Turkish President Erdogan strongly condemned Israel’s actions.
Trump’s Health and Cognitive Test
President Trump underwent his annual physical exam and claimed to have aced a cognitive test. However, the official medical report has not yet been released.
Deportation Ruling for Columbia University Activist
A U.S. immigration judge ruled that Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist and Columbia University student, can be deported. His legal team has criticized the ruling as unfair and a violation of his constitutional rights.
Hong Kong’s Largest Pro-Democracy Party to Disband
The Democratic Party, Hong Kong’s largest pro-democracy party, announced its decision to disband, citing the shrinking political freedoms in the region following the 2019 protests and the imposition of a national security law.
Serbia Braces for Pro-President Rally
Amidst ongoing political tensions and months of anti-corruption protests, Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, is preparing for a large rally in support of the president.
Earthquake Strikes Off Papua New Guinea
A 6.2 magnitude earthquake occurred off the coast of Papua New Guinea, at a significant depth.
Search Ends After Deadly Dominican Republic Roof Collapse
The death toll from the nightclub roof collapse in the Dominican Republic has reached at least 218, with rescue operations transitioning to a recovery phase.
Tourist Helicopter Crash in New York’s Hudson River
A helicopter carrying tourists crashed into the Hudson River, resulting in the deaths of all six people on board, including a family of five and the pilot.
