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French President Emmanuel Macron has called for "strong action" against Russia following a missile attack that claimed the lives of nine children in Kryvyi Rig, Ukraine. In a statement on social media, Macron condemned the ongoing violence, highlighting the need for a ceasefire as Russia continues to "murder children and civilians." The attack on April 4 killed a total of 20 people, with the youngest victim being just three years old. Despite efforts from the US and European nations to broker peace, Macron noted that Russia is escalating its military actions without regard for civilian safety. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky echoed these concerns, stating that Russia has intensified its aerial bombardment, which included a recent wave of missile and drone strikes that resulted in additional casualties. Zelensky emphasized that the pressure on Russia remains insufficient to halt its aggression. 
Published: Apr 06 2025, 11 pmeznews.inRussia has officially invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in the May 9 celebrations commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory over Germany in World War II, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko. The invitation has been dispatched, and arrangements for Modi's attendance are currently in progress. Rudenko confirmed that the visit is anticipated for this year, as Russia extends invites to leaders from several allied nations for the Victory Day parade. The historical significance of May 9 dates back to 1945 when the Soviet Army's offensive culminated in Germany's unconditional surrender. Modi last visited Russia in July 2024, marking his first trip in nearly five years, and has extended an invitation to President Vladimir Putin to visit India, which Putin has accepted, although specific dates remain undisclosed. The two leaders maintain regular communication, including periodic phone calls and meetings at international forums. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 2 pmeznews.inMyanmar continues to face a dire humanitarian crisis following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake on March 28, which left over 3,600 dead and thousands more injured or missing. The military government reported significant destruction, with nearly 49,000 homes and over 2,100 government buildings demolished, exacerbating the plight of a population already grappling with economic turmoil and civil unrest. Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa emphasized the urgent need for medical assistance, field hospitals, temporary shelters, and clean water supplies during discussions with Myanmar officials in Naypyitaw. Meanwhile, the United Nations commended the efforts of over 30 international search-and-rescue teams deployed to assist in recovery. Despite the junta and rebel groups declaring ceasefires to facilitate relief efforts, tensions remain high. Regional leaders are coordinating long-term support initiatives to aid reconstruction and improve disaster resilience in affected areas. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 2 pmeznews.inFinance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman led an India-UK Investor Roundtable in London, engaging around 60 UK investors from various financial sectors. The meeting, aimed at showcasing India's economic growth potential, emphasized the government's commitment to creating an enabling environment for business through regulatory reforms. Sitharaman highlighted India's burgeoning insurance market, projected to become the sixth-largest globally by 2032, and its securities market's adoption of T+1 settlement. The Minister also underscored India's thriving digital economy, contributing 11.74% to GDP, and its strong fintech ecosystem, which has seen rapid growth and significant global funding. Participants expressed interest in deepening investment ties between the UK and India. Ahead of the 13th Ministerial India-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue, Sitharaman is set to discuss trade opportunities and ongoing Free Trade Agreement negotiations with her UK counterpart, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who emphasized the importance of reducing trade barriers for British businesses. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 3 pmeznews.inPro-monarchy protests have surged in Nepal nearly two decades after the country became a secular republic, driven by economic despair and disillusionment with current political leaders. Last month, a royalist rally turned violent, resulting in two deaths and over 100 arrests, reflecting growing calls for the monarchy's restoration amid frustration over political instability and corruption. Rajendra Lingden, chairperson of the royalist Rastriya Prajatantra Party, argues that the monarchy symbolizes national identity and should act as a guardian against foreign interference. Despite gaining 14 parliamentary seats in the last election, mainstream politicians dismiss a return to monarchy as outdated. The former king, Gyanendra, has made recent public appearances, urging national unity and prosperity. Political analysts suggest that royalists are capitalizing on widespread dissatisfaction, echoing a broader global trend towards right-wing conservatism as Nepal grapples with economic challenges and a complex political landscape. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 1 pmeznews.inIndia has finalized a landmark government-to-government deal to purchase 26 Rafale M fighter jets, valued at over Rs 63,000 crore, marking a significant upgrade for its naval forces. This agreement, first proposed in July 2023, includes maintenance support, logistical assistance, and training, alongside commitments for local component manufacturing. The deal is expected to be signed later this month during French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu's visit, with deliveries anticipated five years post-agreement, meaning full operational capability will not be achieved until 2031. The Rafale M, praised for its advanced features, will primarily be deployed on the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, enhancing India's maritime capabilities amid rising concerns over Chinese activities in the Indian Ocean. The new jets will also bolster the Air Force's operations, especially in aerial refueling, while complementing the existing MiG-29K fleet. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 1 pmeznews.inJapan's iconic cherry trees, celebrated for their breathtaking blossoms each spring, are facing a challenge as many reach 70 to 80 years of age, increasing maintenance costs for popular viewing spots. In response, brewing giant Kirin has introduced the Sakura AI Camera, an innovative tool that allows users to assess the health and age of cherry trees by uploading smartphone photos to a dedicated website. The AI, trained on 5,000 images, evaluates tree conditions on a five-point scale, aiding local authorities in conservation efforts. With around 20,000 images collected since its launch, the data is available for free to support tree preservation. Experts, including Hiroyuki Wada from the Japan Tree Doctors Association, express concern over the impact of climate change on these trees, which symbolize the fleeting nature of life in Japanese culture. Kirin has also committed to donating profits to support cherry tree conservation initiatives. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 1 pmeznews.inDuring the recent Startup Mahakumbh in New Delhi, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal criticized the startup sector for focusing predominantly on food delivery services, likening the industry to "delivery boys and girls" instead of fostering innovation akin to Chinese counterparts in electric mobility and technology. Goyal urged entrepreneurs to contribute to the vision of a "Viksit Bharat 2047," highlighting a broader concern about India's technological stagnation amid rising nationalism globally. His remarks sparked backlash from startup leaders, who pointed out inaccuracies in his comparisons and the challenging regulatory environment in India that stifles innovation. While Goyal praised the burgeoning Indian defense sector, critics argue that the government's policies do not support the entrepreneurial spirit necessary for substantial technological advancement. Data indicates a significant digital divide, with only 7% of Indian households owning computers, raising questions about the country's readiness to compete on a global scale in technology. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 2 pmeznews.inThree people were killed and three others injured in a shooting at a townhouse complex in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, on Tuesday evening, with authorities confirming that one or more shooters remain at large. Emergency calls were made around 5:30 p.m. as local law enforcement responded to the scene, approximately 65 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. Major Elizabeth Scott of the Spotsylvania Sheriff's Office stated that the victims were found outside and that their conditions were not immediately available. No arrests have been made, and officials are investigating the possibility of multiple assailants. In light of the incident, Fredericksburg City Public Schools announced a two-hour delay for Wednesday, emphasizing the need to prepare staff and facilities to support students affected by the shooting. Authorities are urging witnesses to provide any video evidence to aid the investigation as dozens of officers continue to search for suspects. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 11 ameznews.inIn Turkana County, Kenya's largest and poorest region, the director of Lodwar County Referral Hospital, Ekiru Kidalio, faces an impending crisis as American-funded aid is set to be dismantled, jeopardizing access to essential medications for diseases like measles and HIV. With the loss of USAID support, which previously employed 64 staff members at the facility, Kidalio expressed concern over treatment shortages, particularly vaccines. The local governor has called for the restoration of these vital programs amidst a growing sense of despair among residents, where nearly 77% live below the poverty line. The situation is equally dire in Kakuma refugee camp, home to over 300,000 individuals, where food rations have been slashed by 60% due to funding cuts, leading to protests and fears of worsening conditions. Aid workers have criticized the lack of long-term planning, suggesting that dependency on emergency aid has exacerbated the crisis. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 12 pmeznews.inDonald Trump's aggressive tariff policies, which have escalated to 104% on Chinese imports, appear to be fostering an unexpected collaboration between India and China, as highlighted by recent statements from Chinese officials. Amidst a renewed trade war with the U.S., China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has urged both nations to unite against American tariff aggression, calling for a cooperative approach to overcome shared challenges. While India's tariffs remain lower at 26%, Trump has criticized Delhi for its tariff practices but has maintained a friendlier rapport with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Despite anticipated losses of approximately $5.76 billion in exports to the U.S. this year, India has opted not to retaliate with its own tariffs, focusing instead on potential trade negotiations. The evolving dynamics come against a backdrop of historically tense relations, particularly following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. 
Published: Apr 09 2025, 12 pm
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