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Russian Woman Jailed for Encouraging Soldier to Rape Ukrainians

A Russian woman, Olga Bykovskaya, has been sentenced to five years in prison after urging her husband, a soldier, to commit sexual violence against Ukrainian women during the ongoing conflict, as reported by _Pravda_. The Shevchenkivskyi District Court in Kyiv convicted her in absentia for violating the laws and customs of war, highlighting the severe human rights abuses occurring in the region. The case gained prominence following the release of an intercepted conversation in April 2022, where Bykovskaya encouraged her husband to rape Ukrainian women, advising him to use protection. Following the incident, she was placed on an international wanted list, and Ukrainian authorities completed their investigation, leading to an indictment in December 2022. This case underscores the broader atrocities and war crimes associated with the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has resulted in extensive suffering and destruction. sources

Published:
Apr 02 2025, 7 pm

US Bans Diplomats from Romantic Relations with Chinese Officials

The U.S. government has introduced a stringent policy banning American personnel, their families, and contractors with security clearances from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese citizens. Implemented by former U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Burns in January, this "non-fraternisation" rule marks a significant shift from previous guidelines, which only restricted relationships with certain roles, such as embassy guards. The policy, driven by concerns over potential security risks and China's alleged tactics to extract sensitive information, applies to U.S. personnel stationed in mainland China and Hong Kong. Those with existing relationships can seek exemptions but must end them or resign if denied. Violations of the policy could lead to immediate expulsion from China. This move underscores the escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing amid broader geopolitical disputes, while highlighting similar restrictions imposed by China on its officials abroad. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 6 pm

Founded Hindu Nation, Then Tried to Seize Land in Bolivia

Nithyananda, a self-styled godman who fled India in 2019 amid allegations of child abduction and sexual assault, created the entity known as 'Kailasa', which he claimed to be a sanctuary for persecuted Hindus. In 2023, representatives of 'Kailasa' gained attention by attending a UN meeting and signing a 'sister cities' agreement with Newark, New Jersey. However, their fortunes took a turn when Bolivian authorities arrested 20 individuals linked to 'Kailasa' after they signed a controversial 1,000-year lease with indigenous groups for extensive Amazon land. The Bolivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it does not recognize 'Kailasa' as a legitimate nation, leading to the annulment of the leases and deportation of its representatives. Indigenous leader Pedro Guasico expressed regret over the deal, stating it was based on false promises. Nithyananda, who previously faced legal issues in India, has claimed immunity as a head of state. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 6 pm

London-Mumbai Flight Diverted to Turkey, Passengers Stranded 15 Hours

A Virgin Atlantic flight from London to Mumbai was diverted to Diyarbakir, Turkey, on April 2 due to an urgent medical emergency and subsequent technical issues, leaving over 200 Indian passengers stranded for more than 15 hours. The airline confirmed the VS358 flight's cancellation and stated that it was conducting necessary technical inspections. Passengers, including a pregnant woman, faced a lack of water and basic facilities during the delay, prompting concern on social media. The Indian embassy in Ankara assured that it was in continuous contact with local authorities to assist the stranded travelers. Virgin Atlantic expressed regret for the inconvenience, emphasizing that the safety of passengers and crew is its top priority, and stated it is exploring options to expedite the continuation of their journeys to Mumbai. Such dual diversions for medical and technical reasons are rare in commercial aviation. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 6 pm

US Faces Major Flood Risk Amid Tornadoes and Heavy Rains

Severe tornadoes have swept across the United States, affecting regions from Texas to Michigan, with reports of two fatalities. The National Weather Service has issued warnings of "generational" flooding in the South and Midwest, putting approximately 15 million people under tornado watches, including residents of Nashville, Tennessee, and Tupelo, Mississippi. Strong thunderstorms are expected to produce tornadoes with wind gusts of up to 75 miles per hour, while hail could reach 1.5 inches in diameter. The storms have already caused significant damage, including a toppled radio tower in Indiana and submerged vehicles in Indianapolis, leaving over 200,000 customers without power across several states. Experts warn that climate change has intensified rainfall rates in 90% of US cities, leading to unprecedented flooding in areas previously unaffected. Residents are advised to seek shelter and remain vigilant as conditions worsen. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 5 pm

Trump Redefines the Concept of Tariffs

On April 2, 2025, President Donald J. Trump declared "Liberation Day," marking a significant shift in U.S. trade policy with the announcement of reciprocal tariffs against various countries. These tariffs, aimed at addressing perceived unfair trade practices, have already sent Asian markets tumbling and driven gold prices to a record high. India faces particular challenges, with a new 26% duty on exports potentially costing its economy $31 billion and disrupting vital sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. Trump's protectionist stance, which echoes previous administrations' approaches to tariffs, aims to reshape trade relations and bolster American manufacturing. Critics argue that such measures may disproportionately burden consumers and create economic instability, as evidenced by past tariff wars that led to increased prices and strained supply chains. The evolving landscape of U.S. trade policies reflects a broader bipartisan trend towards protectionism, reshaping international economic dynamics amid rising global tensions. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 2 pm

Impact of Trump's 26% Tariffs on Indian Exports

The United States has imposed a flat 26% reciprocal tariff on all goods exported from India, following President Donald Trump's decision to raise trade barriers on imports. This new tariff comes amidst a backdrop of varying tariffs imposed on other nations, with rates ranging from 10% to 49%. Key sectors affected include electronics, gems, and jewellery, with nearly $14 billion and over $9 billion worth of exports at risk, respectively. Notably, while the US levies a 2.5% tariff on passenger vehicles, India imposes a substantial 70%. However, pharmaceuticals and energy products from India will remain exempt. The US has a significant trade deficit of $46 billion with India, and the White House criticized India's stringent testing requirements that hinder US exports. Despite these challenges, India is reportedly willing to negotiate lower tariffs on $23 billion worth of US goods, aiming to capitalize on potential market share in textiles and steel. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 3 pm

China Rejects Trump's Tariffs, Promises Countermeasures

China has strongly condemned the new US tariffs, asserting its intention to implement countermeasures to protect its rights and interests. President Donald Trump's decision to impose a 10 percent levy on imports globally, alongside a staggering 34 percent tariff specifically on China, has raised concerns about a potential global trade war. The Chinese Commerce Ministry criticized these tariffs as violations of international trade rules, arguing they threaten global economic growth and harm both US and international supply chains. In retaliation, Beijing has already imposed tariffs of up to 15 percent on various US agricultural products. As China's economy grapples with challenges such as a debt crisis in the property sector and low consumer spending, the escalating trade tensions could jeopardize its recovery. China called for dialogue to address the dispute, warning that protectionism leads to no winners. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 3 pm

Indian Rescue Team's Valor Shines Amidst Myanmar's Tragedy

In the wake of a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Mandalay, Myanmar, last Friday, Indian rescue teams are working diligently to recover bodies and provide relief amid the chaos. The quake has claimed over 3,000 lives and left many areas in ruins, including a residential complex where a devout Muslim woman was found praying with her child. Initial resistance from locals delayed rescue operations, but as the need for expertise became clear, the Indian National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team carefully extricated the bodies while maintaining dignity. Under 'Operation Brahma,' India has dispatched medical supplies and established a field hospital, treating around 200 patients, including earthquake victims. Local residents have expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting the collaborative spirit in the face of tragedy. The earthquake has severely impacted numerous historic sites, with many still missing under collapsed structures. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 3 pm

Teacher Rescued After 5 Days Trapped in Earthquake Rubble

A teacher trapped under the rubble of a hotel in Sagaing for five days survived Myanmar's catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake through a combination of old survival lessons and his own urine. Tin Maung Htwe, 47, was attending a training course when the earthquake struck, prompting him to seek shelter under a bed as the building collapsed around him. Rescuers, including a Malaysian team, found him amidst the devastation, where many buildings had been reduced to debris. His sister, Nan Yone, expressed overwhelming joy at his rescue, describing her emotions as a mix of dancing and crying. After being transported to a hospital, Tin Maung Htwe, despite his injuries, expressed gratitude for his survival and a desire to return to teaching, though he is also contemplating becoming a Buddhist monk. The destruction in Sagaing is significantly worse than in nearby Mandalay, complicating rescue efforts. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 3 pm

Northeast Politicians Push for 'Break Up Bangladesh' Movement

Following a regime change in Bangladesh, the interim government is pivoting towards China for economic support, distancing itself from India, its traditional ally. This shift comes despite India's significant investments in Bangladesh, which include new trade routes and economic corridors. The interim Chief Advisor, Md Yunus, has raised concerns about India's influence, as Bangladesh seeks to reduce Indian economic engagement while courting Chinese investments, particularly in manufacturing, infrastructure, and technology. A $2.1 billion investment commitment from Chinese firms has been highlighted, with plans for a Chinese Economic Zone in Anowara. This realignment poses strategic challenges for India, especially regarding its northeastern regions, where the Chittagong port is seen as crucial for trade. Local politicians are increasingly vocal about securing India's interests, with some advocating for a reevaluation of Bangladesh's territorial integrity. sources

Published:
Apr 03 2025, 1 pm

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