Africa
Algeria expels French diplomats
Officials in Algeria have given 12 French embassy staff 48 hours to leave the country. French officials said the request is linked to the indictment of three Algerians in France. Those who were indicted are accused of involvement in the abduction of Amir Boukhors, an outspoken critic of Algeria’s government.
Nigerian kingpin killed
Gwaska Dankarami, who reportedly served as second-in-command to an Islamic State-linked leader, was killed in a joint Nigerian military operation. He had been hiding in the Munumu Forest along with 100 of his suspected followers. Nigerian officials said the killing was a significant milestone in combating against banditry in Nigeria.
Asia
Indigenous remains returned to Australia
The bodies of 36 indigenous ancestors will be returned to Australia. They were part of the Woppaburra, Warrgamay, Wuthathi, and Yadhaighana communities in the country. Their remains were taken from Australia after Britain’s colonization of the country during the 18th Century. Since then, the remains have been at museums, universities, and private collections throughout the world.
Flights canceled in China due to strong winds
At least 838 flights were canceled in Beijing and northern China over the weekend because wind gusts of up to 93mph. Millions of people were told to stay indoors to avoid the wind and attractions and historic sites were closed. The winds came from a cold vortex system over Mongolia.
Europe
Zelensky says Chinese citizens fighting for Russia
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said that at least 155 Chinese citizens are fighting for Russia. Recently, two Chinese fighters were captured, and Zelensky said there are “many more” Chinese nationalists fighting. Chinese officials denied the country is supplying manpower to Russia. During Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, China has presented itself as a neutral party in the conflict.
Serbia pro government rally brings thousands to capital
Thousands of Serbians who are supporters of President Aleksandar Vucic gathered in Belgrade for a rally. Serbia has seen regular demonstrations since November when a railway station canopy collapsed and killed 16 people. Many Serbians blamed the incident on corruption and corner-cutting by Vucic’s party. Vucic has insisted he isn’t going to resign from his position.
Latin America
Ecuador president wins re-election
Ecuador President Daniel Noba has won the country’s presidential election and will serve a four-year term. He has been in power since November 2023 after he won a snap election. Noba won about 56 percent of the votes after polls before the election showed that the race was neck and neck.
Dominican Republic nightclub collapses, leaves dozens dead
At least 124 people were killed in the Dominican Republic when a roof collapsed at a nightclub. Around 150 others were injured as well. The incident occurred when hundreds of people were inside the club attending a concert. Officials are still investigating what caused the club’s roof to collapse.
North America
Man arrested after attacking Pennsylvania governor’s home
Cody Balmer, a 38-year-old man in Pennsylvania, has been arrested and charged after an alleged arson attack occurred at the home of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Balmer now faces charges of attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault. Shapiro’s home was severely damaged, and him and his family were evacuated from the residency.
Trump in excellent health, says doctor
White House Physician Sean Barabella said in a memo that President Donald Trump is in excellent health. Trump underwent a five-hour medical examination that included blood tests, a cardiac examination, and ultrasounds. He was also found to have scarring on his ear from an assassination attempt that occurred last summer.
