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The United States has established a "Strategic Bitcoin Reserve," following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which is intended to bolster support for the cryptocurrency sector. White House crypto chief David Sacks described the reserve as akin to a "digital Fort Knox," funded by approximately 200,000 bitcoins, valued at around $17 billion, seized from civil and criminal cases. While the initial response to the announcement saw bitcoin prices dip, analysts noted that the reserve's transparency could enhance confidence in the asset. Critics argue that cryptocurrencies lack intrinsic value compared to gold, yet some, including investment director Stephane Ifrah, believe bitcoin's rarity positions it well for modern financial systems. The reserve raises questions about potential conflicts of interest for Trump, who has financial ties to the crypto industry. Meanwhile, other countries, including Brazil, are exploring similar initiatives, reflecting a global trend towards cryptocurrency adoption. 
Published: Mar 16 2025, 2 pmeznews.inTwo US astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, are set to return to Earth on Tuesday evening after spending over nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Their extended stay followed propulsion issues during the Boeing Starliner’s maiden crewed flight, which rendered it unfit for their return. NASA announced the revised splashdown time for the SpaceX Crew Dragon craft, now scheduled for approximately 5:57 PM ET (2157 GMT), ahead of anticipated adverse weather later in the week. Joining Wilmore and Williams on the journey will be NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov. Their return marks the conclusion of an ordeal that saw them far exceed the typical six-month ISS rotation, although it remains significantly shorter than the US record of 371 days set by astronaut Frank Rubio in 2023. The astronauts’ prolonged absence has drawn public sympathy, necessitating the shipment of additional personal items from Earth.
Published: Mar 17 2025, 7 ameznews.inBrazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro, accused of supporting a coup attempt, addressed thousands of supporters at Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana beach, claiming a ban on his re-election bid constitutes a "denial of democracy." The 69-year-old, who served from 2019 to 2022, is barred from public office until 2030 due to unsubstantiated fraud claims regarding Brazil's electronic voting system. Despite this, Bolsonaro aims to position himself as a contender in the upcoming elections, drawing parallels with Donald Trump's political resurgence. The rally, officially calling for amnesty for those convicted in the January 8 riots, attracted fewer participants than previous events. Bolsonaro, who was in the U.S. during the riots, faces potential prison time exceeding 40 years if convicted. Political analysts suggest the demonstration was a strategic move to reaffirm his candidacy intentions while concerns linger over the health and popularity of his successor, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 11 pmeznews.inIn a recent podcast interview with American scientist Lex Fridman, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on his international relationships and key global issues. He praised former US President Donald Trump, highlighting their mutual trust and shared commitment to national interests, commending Trump's resilience and humility, particularly recalling his gesture during the 2019 'Howdy Modi' event. Modi also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, advocating for dialogue between President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, while emphasizing India's diplomatic stance. Furthermore, he underscored the importance of strengthening India-China relations, noting their historical cultural ties and recent efforts to restore normalcy at their border following his meeting with President Xi Jinping. Modi's insights reaffirmed his belief in dialogue and cooperation as essential tools for resolving conflicts and enhancing global stability, stating, "Instead of discord, we emphasise on dialogue."
Published: Mar 17 2025, 12 ameznews.inThousands of supporters of Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro gathered at Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, rallying behind the right-wing leader accused of attempting to overthrow his leftist successor, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro, who served as president from 2019 to 2022, is seeking a political comeback akin to that of Donald Trump, as he aims to position himself for the 2026 elections despite being barred from public office until 2030 due to unproven claims of electoral fraud. The rally, which Bolsonaro called for to demonstrate strength, also aimed to demand amnesty for those convicted in connection with the January 8 riots in Brasilia, where Bolsonaro supporters stormed key government buildings. As Brazil's Supreme Court prepares to consider evidence against him, Bolsonaro asserts he remains a candidate for the upcoming elections, amidst concerns regarding Lula's health and waning popularity.
Published: Mar 17 2025, 12 ameznews.inU.S. President Donald Trump has reached out to Iranian leader Ayatollah Khamenei, proposing negotiations on Iran's nuclear program. However, Khamenei dismissed the overture, suggesting that the demands from "bullying powers" are aimed at imposing their will rather than fostering genuine dialogue. This rejection echoes Khamenei's earlier dismissal of Trump's similar overtures during his first term, citing Trump's approach as a barrier to negotiations. Meanwhile, the U.S. has intensified its "Maximum Pressure" policy on Tehran, including ending sanctions waivers for Iraqi electricity imports from Iran. Despite these measures, Iran has found new buyers for its oil and strengthened ties with BRICS nations and military partners like Russia and China. Khamenei's skepticism towards Western promises was underscored by recent events in Ukraine, reinforcing Tehran's stance against negotiations under duress while continuing discussions with European and Asian allies.
Published: Mar 17 2025, 12 ameznews.inThe Vatican has released a photograph of Pope Francis, marking the first public image of the 88-year-old pontiff since his hospitalization over a month ago for pneumonia affecting both lungs. Captured on Sunday, the photo depicts Pope Francis praying in a chapel located in his hospital suite at the Gemelli Polyclinic, where he is currently receiving treatment. According to the Vatican press office, the pope participated in a concelebrated Holy Mass, a service involving multiple senior clerics. In the image, he is seen seated in a wheelchair, dressed in his traditional white robe and a purple shawl, positioned before a modest altar adorned with a crucifix. The release of the photograph aims to reassure the faithful of the pope's ongoing spiritual leadership during his recovery.
Published: Mar 17 2025, 12 ameznews.inUS President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to discuss a proposed ceasefire in Ukraine this week, amid ongoing pressure from Washington and European allies for an end to the three-year conflict. The US recently suggested halting hostilities following talks in Saudi Arabia, a proposal that Ukraine has accepted, though Putin has responded with conditions and skepticism. Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism about the upcoming discussion, while Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of stalling for battlefield advantages. Recent communications between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov did not explicitly mention the ceasefire. As tensions persist, Russia continues to launch drone strikes, with reports of casualties in Ukraine. Zelensky criticized Putin for complicating ceasefire negotiations, suggesting that Moscow is reluctant to conclude the war.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 9 pmeznews.inIn a harrowing account shared with Al Jazeera, Yousef, a 36-year-old father of five from northern Gaza, recounted his terrifying experience of being used as a human shield by Israeli soldiers during the ongoing conflict. Separated from his family at the Hamad School in Beit Lahiya, where they sought refuge from relentless bombing, Yousef was forced to assist soldiers in searching for fighters in nearby buildings. He described the fear of opening doors with soldiers behind him, ready to shoot, while worrying about his wife Amal and their newborn child. After enduring hours of this ordeal, he was shot in the leg but managed to escape to a hospital. Meanwhile, Amal struggled to carry her newborn and belongings while fleeing with their children, eventually finding shelter at the New Gaza School. The family, still grappling with loss, named their new baby Sumoud, meaning "steadfastness," symbolizing their resilience amid adversity.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 9 pmeznews.inYousef, a 36-year-old father of five from northern Gaza, shared his harrowing experience of being used as a human shield by Israeli soldiers during the recent conflict. Separated from his family at the Hamad School in Beit Lahiya, where they sought refuge from intense bombing, Yousef was forced to accompany soldiers on a search for fighters, enduring hours of terror as he opened doors and entered classrooms, fearing for the safety of his wife, Amal, who had given birth just a week prior. He was shot in the leg but managed to escape to a hospital, eventually reuniting with his family, who had faced their own struggles fleeing south amidst the chaos. Amal, exhausted and carrying their newborn, dropped her baby during their escape but found shelter at the New Gaza School. The family's resilience is symbolized by naming their newborn Sumoud, meaning "steadfastness," as they cope with their losses, including Yousef's missing father.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 9 pmeznews.inPope Francis, currently recovering from pneumonia in hospital, expressed his gratitude for the prayers and support he has received, acknowledging his fragility during this "period of trial." In a heartfelt message shared on Sunday, the 88-year-old pontiff reflected on his faith and the shared struggles of those who are sick, emphasizing that love and hope persist despite physical weakness. Although he has not appeared publicly for the Angelus prayer at St Peter's Square for five consecutive Sundays, well-wishers, including a group of young scouts, gathered outside the Gemelli hospital, eager to catch a glimpse of him. The Vatican has confirmed that while the pope's condition is stable and improving, he continues to require medical and physiotherapy. As Easter approaches, Francis remains committed to his duties and called for peace in conflict zones while thanking his caregivers and those praying for him.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 7 pm
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