Category: Breaking news

Russia is insisting on firm security guarantees as part of any peace agreement with Ukraine, including Kyiv’s permanent exclusion from NATO. Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said on Monday that Moscow would not accept any deal unless Ukraine commits to neutrality and NATO nations formally rule out its membership. “We will demand that ironclad security guarantees become part of this agreement,” Grushko said. He stated that NATO’s involvement in Ukraine is a direct threat to Russia’s national security. The demand comes as U.S. President Donald Trump pushes for a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Ukraine has already accepted the proposal, but Russian President Vladimir Putin has insisted that key conditions must be met before agreeing. Trump is expected to speak with Putin this week to discuss potential terms for ending the three-year war. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, who recently met with Putin in Moscow, described the talks as “positive” and said that both sides are considering their options. Grushko made it clear that Russia strongly opposes any deployment of NATO troops in Ukraine. He stated that Moscow would not tolerate NATO military observers under any label, including European Union peacekeepers or forces acting in a national capacity. “It does not matter under what label NATO contingents are deployed,” Grushko said. He warned that their presence would turn them into parties to the conflict. Britain and France have expressed willingness to send peacekeeping forces to monitor a ceasefire in Ukraine. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also said his country is open to requests for participation. France has insisted that any decision on peacekeeping forces should be made by Ukraine, not Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron recently stated that Kyiv has the right to determine what security measures it needs. Grushko said that Russia would only consider unarmed civilian monitors after a full peace agreement is in place. He argued that foreign military forces could escalate tensions rather than stabilize the situation. Russia’s insistence on excluding Ukraine from NATO aligns with its long-standing opposition to the alliance’s eastward expansion. Moscow has repeatedly cited NATO’s presence near its borders as a justification for military action. The war in Ukraine, now in its third year, has resulted in tens of thousands of casualties and the displacement of millions. Ongoing battles have intensified, with both sides launching drone and missile strikes on military targets. Trump’s push for a ceasefire comes amid growing global pressure to end the conflict. The U.S. and European countries have supplied billions in military aid to Ukraine, while Russia has deepened ties with China, Iran, and North Korea. Negotiating peace remains a challenge, as both Ukraine and Russia have conflicting demands. Ukraine insists that any deal must include the withdrawal of Russian troops from occupied territories. Russia, on the other hand, has signaled it will not retreat from regions it has annexed. Putin has also demanded that Western sanctions on Russia be lifted as part of any peace settlement. The U.S. and its allies have so far refused to make concessions on sanctions. Trump’s upcoming conversation with Putin is expected to be a pivotal moment in determining the next steps. The international community is watching closely to see if both sides can agree on a path toward peace.

A federal judge has demanded that the Trump administration provide concrete evidence to justify its decision to revoke $20 billion in climate funding, intensifying the legal battle over one of the administration’s most controversial moves. Court Demands Proof of Fraud Allegations U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan pressed the administration on Wednesday for proof of fraud, waste, or abuse in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, a climate initiative that aimed to support clean energy and pollution-reduction projects. “You can’t even tell me what the evidence of malfeasance is,” Chutkan told a government lawyer during a heated court hearing in Washington. She ordered the administration to submit a sworn statement by Monday detailing the specific reasons for terminating the program. The move comes as part of a lawsuit filed by Climate United Fund, a nonprofit that had been overseeing the distribution of funds. The group is now seeking an emergency court order to prevent further disruptions to the program. Trump Administration Defends Fund Cancellation The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under Administrator Lee Zeldin, announced on Tuesday that it had officially clawed back the $20 billion, arguing that the program did not align with the agency’s priorities. In a statement, the EPA cited concerns over “potential fraud, waste, and abuse” but did not provide specific details or evidence to support those claims. A lawyer representing the Trump administration argued in court that the lawsuit was now irrelevant, claiming that the funding had already been rescinded, leaving no further legal grounds for the dispute. Climate Advocates and Lawmakers Push Back Environmental groups and Democratic lawmakers have condemned the administration’s actions, calling it an illegal seizure of funds meant to support clean energy projects in disadvantaged communities. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, a vocal critic of the rollback, expressed deep concern over the administration’s use of federal law enforcement to investigate the fund. “The funding process followed a well-established legal framework, and there is no justification for these actions,” Whitehouse wrote in a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel. Citibank Caught in the Legal Battle The financial giant Citibank, which held the grant money under a federal agreement, has also been named in the lawsuit. Climate United Fund argues that Citibank is unlawfully withholding funds that were already approved for distribution. Without immediate access to the money, the organization warns that critical climate projects will be halted, potentially leading to layoffs and financial instability for numerous clean energy initiatives. Political and Legal Implications This legal battle is just the latest development in the Trump administration’s broader effort to reverse climate policies enacted under President Joe Biden. Critics see the move as part of a larger strategy to dismantle environmental regulations and redirect federal resources. The court’s upcoming ruling on whether the administration must provide concrete evidence for its allegations could set a major precedent for future policy reversals. If Judge Chutkan rules in favor of Climate United Fund, it could force the administration to reinstate at least some of the funding. What Comes Next? With a Monday deadline looming, all eyes are on the Trump administration’s next move. If the administration fails to present clear evidence of fraud, it could face further legal challenges and political backlash. Meanwhile, environmental advocates are preparing to escalate their fight, arguing that the decision to revoke the funding is not only unlawful but also a devastating blow to the country’s efforts to combat climate change. The court’s decision could determine the fate of billions of dollars in clean energy investment and shape the future of climate policy in the United States.

The United States has agreed to restore military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine after Kyiv signaled its willingness to support a 30-day ceasefire proposal with Russia. This decision followed over eight hours of discussions between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian officials in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The U.S. will now present the ceasefire offer to Russia, shifting the next move to Moscow. “Every day that goes by, this war continues; people die, people are bombed, people are hurt on both sides of this conflict,” Rubio said. He stressed the urgency of halting hostilities and finding a diplomatic resolution. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has welcomed the proposal and expressed hope that it could lead to broader negotiations. Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged the possibility of discussions but remains skeptical of a temporary ceasefire. He has stated that Russia will only agree to terms that ensure its long-term security. His administration has consistently dismissed the idea of a short-term truce, arguing that any agreement must be comprehensive and beneficial to Russian interests. “Any agreements—with all the understanding of the need for compromise—on our terms, not on American,” a senior Russian lawmaker said. Russian officials have reiterated that Ukraine must fully withdraw from four regions claimed by Moscow before any deal is considered. The resumption of U.S. security assistance marks a shift from recent tensions between Washington and Kyiv. The United States had previously halted intelligence sharing and military aid following disagreements over Ukraine’s strategy. The new agreement signals a renewed effort to support Ukraine while pursuing a diplomatic path to end the war. The ceasefire proposal includes key conditions: Zelenskyy has described the ceasefire as a “positive step” but emphasized that a lasting peace deal must follow. He warned that Ukraine would remain prepared for combat if Russia refuses to comply. The Ukrainian military continues to defend key territories amid ongoing attacks. Despite diplomatic discussions, Russian forces have launched fresh airstrikes on Kyiv and Kharkiv. Air defense systems intercepted several missiles, but some damage was reported in residential areas. The strikes highlight the fragile state of the current battlefield and the uncertainty surrounding ceasefire talks. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has voiced support for the U.S.-led ceasefire initiative. He called on Russia to reciprocate and engage in serious negotiations to end the war. European leaders have also urged a broader discussion on long-term security guarantees for Ukraine. U.S. officials are preparing for further discussions with Moscow. Rubio is expected to speak with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in the coming days to assess whether Putin is open to a temporary ceasefire. The White House has indicated that President Donald Trump may personally engage with Russian leadership if talks show progress. Fighting remains intense in multiple regions. Ukrainian troops have launched counter offensives in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, aiming to reclaim occupied territories. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to press forward in the south, particularly in Zaporizhzhia. Both sides are experiencing significant casualties, further emphasizing the need for a ceasefire. The humanitarian impact of the war continues to grow. Thousands of civilians have fled their homes in recent weeks due to intensified shelling. Aid organizations are struggling to provide relief as infrastructure damage limits access to essential supplies. The United Nations has urged both nations to allow humanitarian aid to reach affected areas without restrictions. China and Turkey have offered to mediate peace talks, but progress remains slow. Beijing has urged a diplomatic resolution that considers Russia’s security concerns, while Ankara has pushed for direct negotiations between Putin and Zelenskyy. Neither leader has agreed to meet face-to-face at this stage. The outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain. Ukraine has signaled its willingness to compromise, but Russia has yet to indicate whether it will accept the terms. Fighting continues on multiple fronts, underscoring the challenges of reaching a truce. For now, the international community watches closely as diplomatic efforts unfold. The coming days will determine whether this ceasefire proposal leads to real progress or becomes another stalled attempt at peace.

A suicide bombing at a security installation in northwestern Pakistan killed at least 12 civilians, including seven children, on Tuesday. Two attackers drove vehicles packed with explosives into the facility, triggering massive explosions that brought down surrounding structures, including a mosque where worshippers had gathered after breaking their Ramadan fast. The blasts caused widespread destruction, damaging nearby shops and homes. The explosion’s force shattered windows in surrounding buildings, sending glass and debris flying across the streets. Rescue workers rushed to pull survivors from the rubble, while ambulances transported the wounded to nearby hospitals. Hospitals quickly became overwhelmed with injured civilians, many suffering from burns, fractures, and shrapnel wounds. “The moment the explosion happened, everything went dark,” said a local resident. “People were screaming, and there was debris everywhere.” Doctors described the situation as critical, with emergency rooms struggling to manage the influx of patients. Many victims were trapped under collapsed buildings, requiring hours of effort from emergency responders to free them. Authorities have not yet determined which group was responsible for the attack, but security analysts believe it may be linked to ongoing conflicts involving extremist groups in the region. “We will not allow terrorists to destabilize our country,” said a senior official. Authorities are investigating whether the attackers had ties to any known militant organizations, aiming to dismantle extremist networks in the region. Intelligence agencies have been placed on high alert, reviewing potential threats and gathering information on extremist networks operating in the region. Military and law enforcement agencies have increased security in the area, launching counterterrorism operations to track down those involved. Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Security patrols have been expanded, and checkpoints have been set up in key locations to prevent further attacks. Local residents expressed growing fear over the frequency of such attacks. “We need protection,” said a shopkeeper near the blast site. “People are afraid to go outside now,” he added. Parents have started keeping their children home from school, fearing further violence. Business owners in the area worry about declining sales, as fewer people venture outside due to safety concerns. The attack follows a recent wave of violence in Pakistan, raising concerns about escalating threats. Extremist groups have carried out similar operations in the past, using suicide bombers and vehicle-borne explosives. Security forces have intensified efforts to dismantle militant networks operating in the region, and authorities are analyzing forensic evidence from the blast site. Investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage and eyewitness testimonies to identify any potential accomplices. Military officials believe the attackers may have received support from outside groups, complicating ongoing counterterrorism efforts. The international community has condemned the attack, with neighboring countries calling for joint efforts to combat extremism. Some governments have pledged to strengthen intelligence-sharing and border security measures to prevent further incidents. Global organizations monitoring terrorism trends have noted a resurgence in extremist activity in parts of South Asia. They have warned that further attacks may follow as investigations continue and authorities remain on high alert. The government has pledged to take decisive action against extremist groups. Security patrols have been increased, and counterterrorism operations are expected to intensify in the coming weeks. For now, residents of the affected area are left to recover from the devastation. Many have lost loved ones, while others remain hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. The attack has heightened concerns about safety, and families now live in fear of further violence. Authorities are working to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of citizens in the region.

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels abducted at least 130 sick and wounded men from two hospitals in Goma, eastern Congo, the United Nations said Monday. The coordinated raids took place on February 28 at CBCA Ndosho Hospital and Heal Africa Hospital, targeting patients suspected of being affiliated with the Congolese army or pro-government Wazalendo militia. “It is deeply distressing that M23 is snatching patients from hospital beds in coordinated raids and holding them incommunicado in undisclosed locations,” UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said. She called for the immediate release of all abducted individuals. The rebels took 116 patients from CBCA and 15 from Heal Africa. Witnesses reported that heavily armed M23 fighters entered the hospitals and conducted searches before forcibly removing the patients. Medical staff were unable to prevent the abductions. Many were threatened at gunpoint, ordered to remain silent, and left fearing for their lives. Goma is a strategic city that M23 seized earlier this year. The city has been a focal point in the ongoing conflict, with thousands of civilians caught in the violence and forced to flee their homes. Hospital morgues have been overwhelmed by the surge in casualties. In just five days, nearly 3,000 individuals were reported killed, 2,880 more were wounded, and medical facilities struggled to provide adequate care for the injured. Eastern Congo has experienced escalating violence since the start of the year. M23 rebels have captured key cities, displacing hundreds of thousands of residents. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate. Aid groups face difficulties in reaching affected areas due to security risks and ongoing clashes. Rwanda has been accused of supporting M23, a claim the government denies. Independent reports suggest that approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops are backing the rebel group. International pressure is mounting for a resolution to the conflict. The United Nations and regional leaders have called for an immediate ceasefire and dialogue. Efforts to negotiate peace have so far been unsuccessful. The rebels continue their advance, and the Congolese government struggles to regain control of lost territories. M23’s resurgence marks one of the most significant escalations of violence in over a decade. Civilians remain the primary victims, with many caught in the crossfire. Hospitals have struggled to keep up with the influx of patients. Many medical facilities have been damaged or abandoned due to the ongoing fighting. Local officials have urged international intervention. They warn that continued inaction could lead to further atrocities and mass displacement. Human rights organizations are closely monitoring the situation. The UN has called for an independent investigation into the abductions and other reported war crimes. Regional tensions have worsened due to the crisis. Neighboring countries fear that the conflict could spill over into their territories. Congo’s military has vowed to push back against the rebels. Recent offensives have attempted to retake some areas but have seen limited success. The international community remains divided on how to respond. Some nations advocate for sanctions against Rwanda, while others call for diplomatic negotiations and increased humanitarian aid. UN peacekeepers remain deployed in the region, working alongside local forces. Their ability to protect civilians, however, has been questioned due to the scale of the violence and ongoing attacks. The abduction of hospital patients marks a new low in the conflict, highlighting the urgent need for immediate intervention, accountability, and global humanitarian action. More updates are expected as the situation unfolds. Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the abductions, possible rescue efforts, and those responsible for these horrifying acts. International organizations are closely monitoring developments, urging swift action to protect vulnerable populations and prevent further atrocities.

A Russian drone hit a multi-story apartment building in Kharkiv late Sunday night. The attack triggered a fire and injured eight people, according to Mayor Ihor Terekhov. Kharkiv has faced repeated air attacks since resisting capture in 2022. Several drone strikes hit the city on Friday, damaging a medical center. The fire spread to several apartments on the top floor. Emergency crews arrived quickly to prevent further destruction. Firefighters worked for hours to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading to nearby buildings. Three other residential buildings sustained damage. More than 100 windows shattered from the blast. Flying debris also damaged parked cars and storefronts in the area. Residents described the attack as sudden and terrifying. One survivor said, “I heard the explosion, and then everything went dark.” Another resident recalled feeling the shockwave before seeing flames outside their window. Rescue teams worked to clear debris and check for more injuries. Officials confirmed that no one required hospital treatment, but many were left shaken. Escalation of Drone Attacks Russian forces have increased airstrikes on Kharkiv in recent weeks. Drones and missiles have targeted civilian areas, including homes and businesses. Nine Shahed-type drones hit the city on March 1. Fires broke out in multiple locations, leaving streets covered in shattered glass. A hospital, gas stations, and supermarkets suffered damage. Emergency services evacuated dozens of people from affected buildings. One drone struck a medical facility, causing a fire on the roof. Rescuers pulled 64 people to safety, including a child. A resident described the destruction: “I woke up to find my windows blown out and my apartment filled with smoke.” Officials urged people to stay indoors during air raid alerts. Many families have sought shelter in underground metro stations. International Reactions The drone attacks occurred amid growing diplomatic tensions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently met with U.S. President Donald Trump. The meeting ended without a clear statement of support from the U.S. administration. European leaders responded by reaffirming their commitment to Ukraine and increasing military assistance. French President Emmanuel Macron warned of escalating threats. “Putin is the one pushing the world closer to war,” he said. The UK hosted a defense summit to discuss military aid and strategic cooperation. Britain pledged £1.6 billion in support, including more air defense missiles and training programs. Ukraine continues to seek stronger security guarantees from Western allies. Government officials stress that air defense systems remain a top priority for national defense. Impact on Civilians The ongoing strikes have left many Kharkiv residents on edge. Families face constant disruptions, with many unsure of when the next attack will come. Hospitals struggle to provide care due to repeated damage. Medical workers have relocated some services to underground shelters. A doctor described the challenges: “Every time we rebuild, another strike comes and destroys everything again.” Volunteers distribute food and medical supplies to affected neighborhoods. Local groups have also set up emergency shelters for displaced families. Despite the attacks, residents continue daily life as best as they can. Many say they refuse to leave their homes despite the risks. What Happens Next? The Ukrainian military has vowed to strengthen air defenses around Kharkiv. Officials say new countermeasures are being deployed to intercept drones before they reach the city. Defense systems are being upgraded to improve response times and interception rates. Residents should stay alert and follow safety instructions during air raids. Authorities recommend keeping emergency supplies, identifying nearby shelters, and staying informed through official channels. The war continues to test Kharkiv’s resilience. While attacks persist, the city remains determined to rebuild, support its people, and survive against ongoing threats.

A ramming attack at a bus stop in northern Israel on Thursday left seven people injured, one of them critically. The attack took place at Karkur Junction, where a Palestinian man deliberately drove his vehicle into a group of civilians waiting for the bus. Israeli police identified the attacker as a Palestinian from Jenin in the northern West Bank. Authorities said the suspect, married to an Israeli citizen, acted with nationalistic motivations. “Preliminary findings suggest the suspect deliberately targeted civilians waiting at the bus stop,” a statement from the Israeli police read. Investigators are examining his background to determine if the attack is part of a broader pattern of nationalistic violence. The victims included one individual in critical condition, with others suffering less severe injuries. Israeli emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, providing treatment before transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. The attack came amid heightened tensions in the West Bank, where violence between Israelis and Palestinians has intensified in recent months. Israel’s military operation in the region, targeting Palestinian militant groups, has led to an increase in hostilities. On Sunday, Israel sent tanks into the northern West Bank for the first time in over 20 years. The operation aims to dismantle Palestinian militant infrastructure in refugee camps, and Israeli officials have indicated that the military will stay in the area for an extended period. Since the start of this military action, over 40,000 Palestinians have fled their homes in Jenin and the nearby city of Tulkarm. Many have sought refuge in other parts of the West Bank, further exacerbating the region’s growing humanitarian crisis. Although a ceasefire was reached between Israel and Hamas in Gaza after 15 months of conflict, the situation in the West Bank has continued to deteriorate. The ceasefire has not eased tensions in the West Bank, where clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants are becoming more frequent. The ramming attack at the bus stop underscores the ongoing volatility in the region. While the exact motivations of the attacker are still under investigation, Israeli authorities believe his actions were linked to nationalist violence. His marriage to an Israeli citizen has raised further questions about his intentions. Israeli officials condemned the attack, calling it an assault on innocent civilians. “We will continue to ensure the safety of our citizens and hold those responsible accountable,” an Israeli spokesperson said. In response to the attack, Israeli security forces have increased patrols at bus stops and other high-risk locations. The authorities are working to reassure the public and prevent similar incidents in the future. Many residents of northern Israel expressed shock and concern over the attack. For some, the incident has heightened fears about the safety of public spaces. Calls for stronger security measures in such areas have grown louder in the wake of the attack. For Palestinians, the ongoing violence and military operations have only added to the hardships they face. The Israeli military’s presence in the West Bank has led to increased displacement and further escalated tensions between the two sides. The ramming attack is seen as part of a larger trend of nationalistic violence in the region. Israeli authorities are investigating whether it is part of a broader campaign to target civilians and undermine stability. The situation in the West Bank remains fluid, with no clear resolution in sight. The continuing military operations and the growing cycle of violence between Israelis and Palestinians show little sign of easing. Israeli authorities are continuing their investigation into the attack, with plans to bolster security measures. As tensions continue to rise, both sides remain at a standstill, unable to find common ground for peace.

President Donald Trump introduced a new “Gold Card” visa program that grants U.S. residency to foreigners who pay $5 million. The initiative is set to replace the EB-5 investor visa, which required a $1 million investment and job creation. “You’re looking at a game changer,” said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. The administration claims the program will attract wealthy individuals who will boost the U.S. economy. Applicants must pass strict background checks before approval. Officials state that only the most “desirable” individuals will be accepted. The program is expected to launch in two weeks. Lutnick confirmed that early demand has been high. Key Details of the Gold Card Visa: “America will welcome those who invest in its future,” said a White House official. The administration believes the policy will attract foreign billionaires and entrepreneurs. Critics argue that Trump’s new visa program favors wealth over qualifications, giving affluent individuals an easier path to U.S. residency. Immigration advocates warn that it creates an unfair system where financial power determines eligibility rather than skills, contributions, or need. “This is selling U.S. citizenship to the highest bidder,” said Senator Chris Murphy, a vocal opponent of the initiative. He and other lawmakers believe the program undermines the integrity of the immigration system by allowing the ultra-rich to bypass traditional requirements. Supporters push back against these claims, arguing that the visa will provide a significant financial boost to the U.S. economy. Officials say the influx of high-net-worth individuals will generate billions in tax revenue, increase investment, and help reduce the national deficit. While some see the policy as a necessary economic strategy, others worry it sets a dangerous precedent. Immigration experts caution that it may shift U.S. residency from an opportunity based on merit to a privilege reserved for those who can afford the price tag. Wealthy individuals have always sought U.S. residency through investment. This program formalizes that process at a higher price point. The initiative is expected to appeal to investors from China, the Middle East, and Russia. Some officials warn that it may allow financial criminals to buy U.S. residency. Lawmakers remain divided on the program’s impact. The debate is likely to intensify as implementation begins. Business leaders welcome the initiative as a way to attract international talent. Some believe it will make the U.S. a top destination for global investors. Government officials stress that national security will not be compromised. Background checks will involve financial audits and international cooperation. Criticism is expected to grow as the program moves forward. Lawmakers may introduce additional safeguards in response to public concerns. The administration argues that this visa will strengthen the economy. Supporters believe it could generate billions in new revenue. Opponents claim it sets a dangerous precedent. Some worry that wealthy individuals will gain access while skilled workers struggle with the existing immigration process. “This policy sends the wrong message,” said immigration attorney Daniel Levine. “It tells people that U.S. residency is for sale.” Supporters say the visa is no different from other investment-based immigration programs. The only change is a higher price tag and simplified requirements. Public opinion remains divided on whether wealth should determine immigration eligibility. The policy’s success will depend on demand and economic impact. Your opinion matters in this debate. Should U.S. residency be available to the highest bidder? The program’s long-term effects will be closely monitored.