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Russia Space Chief Dismissed After Moon Mission Failure

The Kremlin has dismissed Yuri Borisov, head of Russia's space agency Roscosmos, following the failure of the Luna-25 moon mission, which marked Russia's first lunar attempt in 47 years. Borisov, who led Roscosmos since July 2022, was replaced by Dmitry Bakanov, a former deputy transport minister and head of a satellite company. Despite the setback, Borisov had ambitious plans for a new Russian orbital space station set to launch in 2027, aiming to maintain a continuous crewed presence in space and conduct various projects. Russia's space ambitions come amid heightened global competition and concerns over potential militarization of space, especially with the impending expiration of a key nuclear arms agreement with the U.S. in 2026. Borisov previously served as a deputy defence minister, and Bakanov has experience in satellite communications, having worked with the Gonets system. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 2 pm

India's Race to Compete in Africa's Emerging Battle

At the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation held in Beijing in September 2024, President Xi Jinping engaged with African leaders amid a backdrop of shifting geopolitical dynamics on the continent. Africa, rich in natural and human resources, has long grappled with exploitation and underdevelopment, often exacerbated by both colonial legacies and local governance issues. Recently, countries like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have severed ties with France, seeking closer relationships with Russia and China, while the US attempts to counter this influence through initiatives like the Lobito corridor project. China has solidified its presence through military and economic partnerships, with plans to train thousands of African officers and expand infrastructure projects. As Russia also enhances its influence via the Wagner Group, Africa finds itself navigating a complex landscape of international engagement, balancing relationships with emerging powers against historical ties to the West. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 5 pm

UN Reports 80 Killed in Southern Sudan Violence

The United Nations has issued a grave warning regarding the escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states of Sudan, stating that they are "on the brink of catastrophe." Recent clashes between the Sudanese army and a faction of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), led by Abdel Aziz al-Hilu, have reportedly resulted in at least 80 fatalities in the city of Kadugli alone. UN humanitarian coordinator Clementine Nkweta-Salami condemned the use of civilians as human shields and the obstruction of aid. Since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023, which has pitted the army against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, tens of thousands have died, and millions face acute food insecurity. The UN warns that approximately 500,000 people are nearing famine, with malnutrition rates rising sharply as families struggle with limited food supplies, particularly in the Nuba Mountains, where famine has already been declared. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 5 pm

Darien Gap: Dangerous 97-Km Jungle Migrants Cross to US

The United States has recently deported 104 Indian migrants, who were handcuffed and shackled for a nearly 24-hour flight back to India, amid ongoing crackdowns on illegal immigration. This deportation follows a conversation between US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding immigration issues. Many Indian migrants undertake perilous journeys through the Darien Gap, a treacherous 97-km stretch of dense jungle between Colombia and Panama, often referred to as the 'donkey route'. This dangerous path has seen a dramatic rise in crossings, with over 520,000 migrants in 2023 alone, driven by criminal organizations that exploit their desperation. The humanitarian crisis in the region is severe, with rampant violence, overcrowded shelters, and environmental degradation, as local communities struggle to cope with the influx. The Gulf Clan cartel reportedly earned $57 million from these migrant crossings in the first ten months of 2023, highlighting the intersection of human trafficking and organized crime. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 6 pm

UN Reports 10,000 Aid Trucks Enter Gaza Post-Ceasefire

More than 10,000 aid trucks have entered Gaza since a ceasefire began on January 19, according to UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher. He reported this "massive surge" while preparing to lead a convoy into northern Gaza, expressing gratitude to those facilitating the delivery of essential supplies such as food, medicine, and tents. The ceasefire, which paused 15 months of intense conflict following Hamas's October 7 attack that killed 1,210 Israelis, has allowed for increased humanitarian aid amid reports of severe hunger in the besieged territory. The ongoing truce has also seen the release of 18 hostages in exchange for around 600 Palestinian prisoners. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with Gaza's health ministry reporting over 47,518 deaths, predominantly civilians, due to Israel's retaliatory strikes. The UN has deemed these figures reliable as negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire are set to commence. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 4 pm

Trump Administration Reverses Gaza Plan: White House Response Explained

The Trump administration has clarified its controversial proposal to resettle the population of Gaza, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that any action in the region would be temporary. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the U.S. does not plan to deploy troops to Gaza. President Trump had previously suggested relocating Gazans to neighboring territories, describing the area as a "demolition site" in need of reconstruction after prolonged conflict with Hamas. This proposal has faced backlash from Palestinians, who fear permanent displacement, and from Arab nations. Rubio characterized the plan as a "generous" offer for rebuilding efforts, while Leavitt reiterated that the relocation would not be a long-term solution. Trump's remarks about permanently resettling Gazans, which he framed as a humanitarian gesture, were met with skepticism, particularly his vision of transforming Gaza into a luxurious destination along the Mediterranean. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 4 pm

Colombia President: Cocaine Illegal Only from Latin America

Colombian President Gustavo Petro sparked controversy during a live government meeting by asserting that cocaine "is no worse than whisky" and is illegal primarily due to its Latin American origins. As the world's largest cocaine producer, Colombia has long battled drug trafficking, exporting most of its cocaine to the United States and Europe. Petro argued that legalizing cocaine globally could dismantle the drug trade, equating it to the sale of wine. He highlighted the dangers of fentanyl, an opioid responsible for approximately 75,000 deaths annually in the U.S., emphasizing that it is not produced in Colombia but was developed by North American pharmaceutical companies. Since taking office in 2022, Petro has sought to negotiate peace with armed groups linked to drug trafficking, amid reports that cocaine production in Colombia surged by 53% in 2023, reaching a record 2,600 tons, according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 3 pm

Cry, Bangladesh: Taslima Nasreen on Mujibur Rahman's Arson

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen expressed deep sorrow over the recent arson attack on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's residence in Dhaka, calling for the establishment of a museum on the site to preserve the memory of Bangladesh's founder. In a passionate post on social media, she condemned the attackers as "Islamic terrorists" and criticized the current regime, suggesting it comprises individuals who have historically opposed an independent Bangladesh and secularism. Nasreen, who fled Bangladesh in 1994 after facing threats for her book "Lajja," alleged that law enforcement has been complicit in the erasure of Sheikh Mujib's legacy. She urged for a reconstruction of the historical site and emphasized the importance of teaching the true history of Bangladesh's Liberation War in educational institutions. Furthermore, she called for a reformation of the Awami League to eliminate corruption and promote progressive, secular values in governance. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 3 pm

US Deportation Explained: Who Stays and Who Leaves

The looming threat of deportation affects approximately 1.4 million undocumented immigrants in the United States, many of whom pursued the American dream under the Trump administration's stringent immigration policies. The perilous journey to the US often involves paying hefty sums to human traffickers and facing severe dangers, including violence and disease. Once in the US, individuals who entered illegally or lack valid documentation may be detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and face immigration court proceedings, where they can apply for asylum or voluntary departure. However, only a small fraction of asylum claims are approved. Recent deportations have sparked outrage, particularly after a military jet returned 104 Indian immigrants in chains, prompting criticism from Indian lawmakers. India's Foreign Minister defended the deportation process, emphasizing the importance of legal immigration and the obligation of nations to repatriate their citizens living illegally abroad. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 3 pm

Luxury Watch Heist in London Was Staged, Report Claims

A high-profile robbery of luxury watches valued at £1.38 million in southwest London on May 25, 2022, has been revealed to be a staged event, with all parties, including the shop's manager, consenting to the scheme. Junior Kunu, 30, and Mannix Pedro, 37, are currently on trial at Woolwich Crown Court, denying conspiracy to commit robbery after 70 watches were taken from 247 Kettles in Richmond. Kunu testified that he was promised £5,000 for his involvement, asserting, "This was not a robbery; this was staged." Tragically, the shop's office manager, Oliver White, 27, took his own life the day after the incident, with jurors informed that his death was "as a direct result" of the staged robbery. Kunu claimed he believed the act was part of an insurance scam and was assured that the shop staff would comply with the plan. sources

Published:
Feb 06 2025, 3 pm

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