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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.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 pmeznews.inA devastating fire at Club Pulse in Kocani, North Macedonia, early Sunday claimed the lives of 59 people, with authorities attributing the blaze to on-stage fireworks igniting flammable materials. Over 155 individuals were injured, 18 critically, necessitating transfers to hospitals in Europe for serious cases. The nightclub was hosting a concert by the hip-hop duo DNK when the fire erupted around 3:00 am local time, leading to chaos and a stampede among the crowd of over 1,000 attendees. Interior Minister Pance Toskovski confirmed that arrest warrants have been issued for four individuals linked to the incident, as a criminal investigation unfolds. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski described the event as a "very sad day" for the nation, with condolences pouring in from regional leaders and Pope Francis. The tragedy has sparked offers of assistance from neighboring countries, as the community grapples with the profound loss of young lives.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 8 pmeznews.inIndia and New Zealand have announced the resumption of negotiations for a long-stalled free trade agreement, initially initiated in 2010 but halted in 2015 after nine rounds of discussions. The Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) aims to enhance trade in goods, services, and investment between the two nations. The announcement coincides with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's four-day visit to India, highlighting the importance of this renewed dialogue. The Indian Ministry of Commerce stated that the negotiations seek to achieve balanced outcomes that will improve market access and integrate supply chains. The resumption of talks marks a significant step in strengthening economic ties between India and New Zealand, as both countries look to foster mutually beneficial trade relations.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 6 pmeznews.inPrime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent appearance on the Lex Fridman podcast, emphasized the need for diplomacy to resolve the ongoing war in Ukraine, urging both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to seek a peaceful resolution. Modi stated, "this is not the time for war," and advised Zelensky that battlefield victories would not lead to a sustainable outcome. He highlighted his close ties with both nations, advocating for inclusive discussions that involve both parties. Meanwhile, the Kremlin confirmed discussions between Russia and the United States regarding potential steps to end the conflict, following calls from Kyiv's European allies for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. Despite these diplomatic efforts, Putin has yet to agree to the ceasefire, citing conditions and concerns, while Zelensky accused Moscow of stalling peace initiatives to gain an advantage on the battlefield.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 6 pmeznews.inPrime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the importance of strengthening India-China relations, advocating for dialogue over discord during a recent appearance on the Lex Fridman Podcast. Acknowledging the historical ties between the two nations, Modi noted their shared cultural heritage and past economic collaboration, highlighting that India and China once accounted for over half of the world's GDP. Despite acknowledging tensions resulting from border disputes, particularly following clashes in 2020, he expressed optimism following recent discussions with President Xi Jinping, indicating a return to normalcy along the Line of Actual Control. Modi reiterated the necessity of cooperation for global stability, asserting that while differences are natural, they should not escalate into disputes. He called for a healthy competition that prioritizes mutual understanding and cooperation, underscoring that dialogue is essential for fostering a stable relationship between the two countries.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 6 pmeznews.inFabian Schmidt, a 34-year-old German national and valid US green card holder, was detained by immigration officers at Logan Airport in Massachusetts on March 7 after returning from Luxembourg. His family claims he was arrested, stripped naked, and subjected to violent interrogation before being moved to the Donald W. Wyatt detention facility in Rhode Island. They assert that Schmidt's green card was recently renewed and that he has no ongoing legal issues. His partner waited four hours for him at the airport before contacting authorities. Astrid Senior, Schmidt's mother, described the treatment he received as humiliating and abusive, alleging he was subjected to a cold shower and denied adequate hydration, leading to his collapse. US Customs and Border Protection stated that travelers may be detained for visa violations but could not provide specifics due to privacy regulations. Schmidt's case has sparked outrage and highlighted concerns regarding stringent immigration policies.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 4 pmeznews.inRussian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov urged the United States to refrain from using force in Yemen and to pursue political dialogue during a phone call with US Senator Marco Rubio on Saturday. The discussion followed Washington's announcement of planned strikes against the Houthi movement. Lavrov emphasized the necessity of an immediate halt to hostilities and the importance of all parties engaging in dialogue to prevent further bloodshed, according to Russia's foreign ministry. This call marks a renewed dialogue between the two nations since the Trump administration took office. Russia has previously condemned US and British military actions in Yemen and has engaged in talks with the Houthis, who are supported by Iran, Moscow's ally. The situation remains tense as international efforts to stabilize Yemen continue.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 5 pm
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