[QUICKREADS]
President Vladimir Putin on Friday announced there are “four new regions of Russia” as he announced the formal annexation of the Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine. The four regions were partially seized by Moscow's forces during a seven-month conflict with Ukraine Russia declared the annexations after holding what it called referendums in occupied areas of Ukraine. Western governments and Kyiv said the votes breached international law and were coercive and unrepresentative.
A boy accused of stabbing two Christian clerics during a Sydney church service had anger management issues but showed no signs of radicalization. The boy spoke about the Prophet Muhammad being insulted after the attack, which authorities declared a terrorist act. The bishop forgave the attacker, who apologized and showed remorse. The family had relocated to avoid retaliation, and the boy had a history of offenses. Police say he may not be charged with terrorism offenses.
Cloud seeding does not cause extreme flooding like what hit the UAE recently. Meteorologists say the heavy rainfall is more likely due to climate change. While cloud seeding can enhance rainfall marginally, it is not a major factor in extreme weather events. The method remains controversial, with scientists debating its effectiveness. Despite this, governments in drought-prone regions invest in cloud seeding technology in hopes of boosting water supplies.
Belarus suspends participation in the Conventional Forces in Europe treaty, a move that could allow the country to expand its military. The treaty, abandoned by Russia last year, aimed to maintain military balance in Europe. Belarus, a key ally of Russia, now awaits President Lukashenko's signature for the bill to become law. The move could potentially increase Belarus' army strength and weapon arsenal, though not guaranteed.
French President Macron calls for EU to increase sanctions against Iran after attack on Israel. Leaders discuss expanding sanctions to target those producing missiles and drones used in the attack. EU also focuses on war in Ukraine, ceasefire in Gaza, and economic competitiveness. US preparing new sanctions on Iran's missile and drone program. EU leaders expected to renew calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza and increased humanitarian aid for Palestinians.
The US and Italy agreed to work together to combat foreign misinformation and fake news. The pact, signed by Blinken and Tajani, aims to promote transparency in media financing, counter information manipulation by foreign states, and assist other countries in safeguarding their elections. Both nations plan to invest in AI tools to address fake news and create a shared database on manipulation activities.
The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) criticized Facebook owner Meta for its "pay or consent" model, where users pay for data protection rights. The EDPB stated that users should have a genuine choice for data protection, not a binary one. Privacy advocates support this opinion, while tech lobby group CCIA warns of negative consequences. Meta awaits a decision from Irish regulators on its subscription model.
Indonesian authorities issue a tsunami alert after eruptions at Ruang volcano in Sulawesi. Over 11,000 people evacuated as volcano had five major eruptions in 24 hours. Officials fear possible collapse into the sea. Residents are being relocated to Manado. Indonesia, with 120 active volcanoes, sits along the "Ring of Fire."
Opposition parties in the Maldives demand a probe and impeachment of President Mohamed Muizzu ahead of parliamentary elections following leaked corruption allegations from 2018. President dismisses charges, sparking political storm. Calls for investigation from Maldivian Democratic Party and People's National Front. President denies allegations, opposition insists on accountability. Elections on Sunday will decide fate of Muizzu's presidency. 368 candidates vying for 93 seats.
Turkish President Erdogan will host Hamas leader Haniyeh in Turkey this weekend. Erdogan, a vocal critic of Israel, will meet Haniyeh at the Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul. Erdogan has condemned Israel's actions in Gaza and has formed a close relationship with Haniyeh, offering condolences for his family members killed in Israeli strikes. Erdogan has called Israel a "terrorist state" and Hamas "liberators."
The United Nations is seeking $2.8 billion in funding to assist over three million people in Gaza and the West Bank to alleviate food shortages and prevent famine. The appeal aims to help 3.1 million individuals and provide food aid to 2.2 million people in Gaza and 400,000 in the West Bank. The situation in Gaza has reached levels of critical food shortages resembling famine, prompting urgent action.
Heavy rains in Afghanistan have killed around 70 people in the past five days, with over 2,600 houses damaged and 95,000 acres of farmland destroyed. The dry winter worsened the flooding caused by spring downpours. Neighboring Pakistan also reported 65 storm-related deaths. Afghanistan, ill-prepared for extreme weather events, faces increasing severity due to climate change.
Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi, jailed former leader, moved from prison to house arrest due to a heat wave. Over 3,000 prisoners released as part of New Year holiday amnesty. Suu Kyi's health deteriorated in prison, prompting concerns from her son. Military government faces defeats amid ongoing conflict since 2021 coup. Critics say charges against Suu Kyi were fabricated. Spokesperson Zaw Min Tun did not specify if the move was temporary.
A Russian strike on Chernigiv, Ukraine, killed 13 and wounded dozens. Ukraine lacked air defences to intercept missiles. Zelensky urged allies for more support. Chaus reported damage to buildings and infrastructure. Kuleba called for advanced air defence systems from allies. The attack marks a renewed call for international assistance in the ongoing conflict.
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a Gaza truce and hostages release have stalled, according to Qatar's prime minister. Efforts with the US and Egypt have hit a sensitive stage, trying to end Gaza suffering and free hostages. Concerns rise over war spilling into a regional conflict after Iran's first direct attack on Israel. Qatar urges the international community to stop the war and aid Gaza.
Iran's President Raisi set to visit Pakistan soon, aiming to mend ties after missile strikes in January. US and allies plan fresh sanctions against Iran for attack on Israel, as tensions rise. Saudi Arabia to invest billions in Pakistan.Neighbors seek to expand security cooperation amidst regional instability concerns.