Africa
Deadly rain and flooding in Kenya kill 23 people
At least 23 people were killed in Nairobi, Kenya because of severe flooding. Authorities said many of the victims drowned after being swept into rivers while others were electrocuted. Kenya’s military has worked to rescue people trapped inside their cars. The flooding also damaged important roads in the country’s capital.
Former South Africa defense minister passes
Former South Africa Defense Minister Mosiuoa Lekota has passed at the age of 77. Lekota was imprisoned on Robben Island with former President Nelson Mandela and fought against the racist system of apartheid. He served as South Africa’s defense minister from 1998 to 2008.
Asia
Indonesia set to ban social media for youth under 16
Indonesia is becoming the latest country to ban social media and other popular online platforms for children under 16. Among the platforms banned include YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, X, and more. Recently, Australia became the first country to force social media firms to block users under the age of 16.
North Korea cancels annual marathon
North Korea is canceling the Pyongyang marathon for unspecified reasons, according to a tour agency linked to the event. The event first started in 191 to celebrate North Korea founding leader Kim I1 Sung, and this year’s race was set to take place in April. Officials have yet to provide further explanation for the cancelation.
Europe
Finland to allow nuclear weapons on its territory
Finland officials announced it is planning to lift a long-time ban on having nuclear weapons in the country. Officials said Finland’s security environment has significantly changed since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. By lifting the ban, nuclear weapons could be brought to Finland, transported, delivered, or possessed if connected to the military.
Russia strike hits apartment block
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that at least 10 people were killed by a Russian airstrike. The attack targeted an apartment block, and several others were also injured. Officials said seven apartment buildings, power grids, and administrative buildings were also damaged.
Latin America
US/Venezuela agree to diplomatic ties
The United States and Venezuela have agreed to re-establish diplomatic relations to promote stability, support economic recovery, and advance political reconciliation. In January, the United States captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Him and his wife were brought to New York to face weapon and drug charges that they deny.
Mexico prepares security for World Cup
Mexico, who will be co-hosting this year’s World Cup, is planning to deploy around 100,000 security personnel to protect fans. Some of the matches will take place in Guadalajara, where drug cartel violence has intensified recently. FIFA said it feels assured that Mexico can successfully host World Cup games.
North America
Rihanna’s home hit by gunfire
Police in Los Angeles said the home of pop star Rihanna was hit by gunfire. Officials arrested a suspect, and nobody was injured. Assault rifle casings were discovered at the scene, and Rihanna was in the mansion at the time of the incident. Police have not yet publicly identified the suspect.
Tornadoes hit Michigan and Oklahoma, leaving six dead
At least six people, including a 12-year-old boy, were killed by tornadoes in Michigan and Oklahoma. Officials said large structures like homes and pole barns sustained structural damage while other buildings were destroyed. Authorities also noted that hundreds of people were left without power.
