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The US Commerce Department has announced tariffs up to 3,521% on solar panels from Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. This decision follows a year-long investigation into alleged unfair pricing and subsidies benefiting Chinese manufacturers. The International Trade Commission will finalize the tariffs in June 2025, impacting US solar production and pricing.
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As of April 25, 2025, central banks are responding to economic pressures from U.S. tariffs. The Bank of Russia maintained its key rate at 21%, while the Reserve Bank of India cut its rate to 6%. The European Central Bank has also lowered rates to 2.25%, reflecting growing concerns over inflation and economic growth.
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Pope Francis, recovering from pneumonia, did not preside over Easter Mass in Vatican City, delegating duties to Cardinal Angelo Comastri. Despite his absence, Easter services were held worldwide, symbolizing resilience amid ongoing conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and Lebanon, where congregations gathered in damaged churches.
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On April 5, 2025, Israel confirmed a military operation in southern Syria, targeting remnants of the Assad regime. This follows a series of airstrikes and ground incursions that have resulted in civilian casualties and heightened tensions. Syrian officials condemned these actions as destabilizing, while Israel justified them as necessary for national security.
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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has emphasized the need for respectful trade discussions with the U.S. amid escalating tensions over tariffs. Following President Trump's remarks about Canada becoming the 51st state, Carney is preparing for early elections while addressing the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian industries.
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Following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on corruption charges, Turkey has seen unprecedented protests, marking the largest civil unrest in over a decade. Demonstrators, led by the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), claim the charges are politically motivated, resulting in nearly 1,900 arrests and widespread calls for change.
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Joakim Medin, a Swedish journalist for Dagens ETC, was arrested in Turkey on charges of terrorism and insulting the president. His detention follows protests against the jailing of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. The Turkish presidency claims the arrest is unrelated to journalism, while his employer decries the charges as absurd.
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As Eid al-Fitr is celebrated, many Muslims face a somber holiday due to ongoing conflicts, particularly in Gaza and Lebanon. The festivities are overshadowed by grief, loss, and economic hardship, with families mourning loved ones and struggling to maintain traditions amidst violence and displacement.
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On March 19, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu was arrested on corruption charges, sparking nationwide protests. Hundreds of thousands rallied in Istanbul on March 29, demanding his release and an end to government repression. The protests, organized by the opposition CHP, are the largest Turkey has seen in over a decade, with nearly 2,000 arrests reported.
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Joakim Medin, a Swedish journalist for Dagens ETC, was arrested in Turkey on charges of terrorism and insulting the president. His detention follows a crackdown on media covering protests against the jailing of Istanbul's mayor. Turkish authorities claim his arrest is unrelated to his journalism.
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An Abu Dhabi court sentenced three Uzbek nationals to death and a fourth to life imprisonment for the murder of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, committed with terrorist intent. The verdict follows Kogan's abduction and killing in November 2024, which has raised concerns within the Jewish community in the UAE.
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Israeli forces have intensified military operations in Gaza, resulting in at least 77 Palestinian deaths on Wednesday alone. Defence Minister Israel Katz announced plans to seize large areas of the territory, escalating the conflict that has already claimed over 50,000 lives since October 2023.
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On April 18, 2025, protests continued in Istanbul as dozens faced trial for participating in demonstrations against the arrest of opposition Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu. His imprisonment on corruption charges has sparked nationwide unrest, with over 2,000 people detained since March. The opposition claims the charges are politically motivated, aiming to silence dissent ahead of potential early elections.
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Nearly 300 Delta passengers experienced significant delays after two flights from Mexico were diverted to Montgomery, Alabama, due to storms. Passengers were stranded on the tarmac for hours without customs clearance, leading to a frustrating travel experience. Delta has since apologized and is offering refunds.
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On April 3, 2025, President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on car imports, escalating trade tensions with Canada and Mexico. In response, both countries are considering retaliatory measures, raising fears of a global trade war that could significantly impact economies worldwide. Leaders from both nations have voiced strong opposition to the tariffs.
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José Mourinho has received a three-match ban and a fine of approximately £6,000 for physically confronting Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk during a post-match incident. The altercation occurred after Galatasaray's 2-1 victory in the Turkish Cup quarter-finals, leading to heightened tensions between the two clubs.
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Greece's Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced a comprehensive defense strategy, including the 'Shield of Achilles' system, aimed at modernizing military capabilities amid rising tensions with Turkey. This initiative reflects a shift towards advanced technologies and increased defense spending, aligning with broader European security efforts.
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On April 3, 2025, two separate migrant boat accidents occurred in the Aegean Sea, resulting in multiple fatalities and rescues. Greek and Turkish coast guards responded to emergencies involving a total of 66 people, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by migrants attempting to reach Europe.
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Israel has issued a warning to Turkey regarding its plans to establish military bases in Syria's Palmyra region, labeling it a 'red line.' This follows recent Israeli airstrikes on sites Turkey was assessing for military deployment, amid rising tensions between the two nations since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with President Donald Trump in Washington to discuss tariffs, the ongoing war in Gaza, and regional security issues. This meeting follows Netanyahu's visit to Hungary, where he received support against an ICC arrest warrant. Protests erupted in D.C. as activists condemned Israel's actions in Gaza.
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José Mourinho has received a three-match ban and a fine of approximately $7,700 for an incident involving Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk. The incident occurred after a Turkish Cup match on April 3, 2025, where Mourinho pinched Buruk's nose, leading to a scuffle between the teams.
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As violence escalates in Ukraine, President Trump expresses frustration over recent bombings, particularly following a deadly strike in Kryvyi Rih that killed 14 people. He advocates for a ceasefire while Russia remains hesitant, complicating peace negotiations. The situation continues to evolve as both sides discuss terms for a truce.
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As of April 15, 2025, Gaza is experiencing severe humanitarian conditions, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres describing it as a 'killing field.' Aid has been blocked for over a month, leading to widespread shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. The situation has escalated amid ongoing military actions and stalled ceasefire negotiations.
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Indonesia's Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto announced plans to evacuate around 1,000 wounded and traumatized Palestinians from Gaza to Indonesia for temporary care. This initiative aims to support victims until they recover and conditions in Gaza improve. The move reflects Indonesia's commitment to Palestinian independence and humanitarian aid amidst ongoing conflict.
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OpenAI has countersued Elon Musk, alleging harassment and unfair business practices as their legal battle escalates. Musk's lawsuit claims OpenAI has deviated from its nonprofit mission. A jury trial is set for March 2026, coinciding with OpenAI's transition to a for-profit model, which Musk opposes.
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Discussions between the US and Russia regarding the restoration of direct flights and embassy operations have intensified. Following a thaw in relations under the Trump administration, both sides are exploring diplomatic logistics while military tensions in Ukraine persist. However, US officials remain skeptical about the feasibility of direct flights amid ongoing sanctions.
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Turkey's pro-Kurdish DEM Party is urging parliament to support a renewed peace process with the PKK, following a ceasefire declared by the group. President Erdogan's government has not formally acknowledged peace talks, but recent meetings suggest a potential shift towards dialogue after years of conflict.
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Italy has begun transferring rejected asylum seekers to Albania, marking a controversial shift in its migration policy. This move, part of a broader strategy to manage migration, has faced legal challenges and criticism from human rights advocates. The first group of 40 men arrived in Albania on April 11, 2025.
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Turkey's President Erdogan faces domestic protests following the imprisonment of his political rival, Ekrem Imamoglu. Amidst this, he asserts Turkey's role in European security at a diplomatic forum, while international investor confidence wanes due to ongoing political instability.
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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned Israel for destabilizing Syria during a diplomatic forum in Antalya. His remarks followed recent Israeli airstrikes in Syria and discussions with Syria's new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, aimed at strengthening Turkey's influence in the region. Erdogan emphasized Turkey's commitment to preventing further instability in Syria.
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On April 13, 2025, two Russian ballistic missiles struck Sumy, Ukraine, killing at least 34 people and injuring 117, including children. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemned the attack, demanding a strong international response as world leaders expressed outrage. The strike occurred on Palm Sunday, intensifying calls for a ceasefire amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
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On April 14, 2025, Greece's Defense Minister Nikos Dendias signed a deal for 16 Exocet missiles with France. This agreement is part of Greece's broader military modernization plan, which includes significant purchases from France amid ongoing tensions with Turkey. The cost of the deal remains undisclosed.
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The US military is set to reduce its troop presence in Syria from approximately 2,000 to below 1,000 over the coming months. This decision, announced by Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell, aims to maintain pressure on ISIS while adapting to the evolving political landscape in Syria, including recent agreements between Kurdish forces and the Syrian government.
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On April 25, 2025, Kyiv experienced its deadliest night of the year as Russian missile strikes killed 12 civilians and injured at least 90. The attack involved a barrage of missiles and drones, coinciding with stalled peace talks. President Zelenskyy condemned the strikes, while international leaders called for renewed efforts towards a ceasefire.
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On April 17, 2025, the European Central Bank (ECB) lowered its benchmark interest rate to 2.25% to stimulate economic activity amid slowing growth and rising trade tensions due to U.S. tariffs. This decision follows a series of rate cuts aimed at addressing inflation that has recently stabilized.
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Hamas has expressed readiness to release all remaining Israeli captives in exchange for a five-year truce with Israel. Mediators from Egypt and Qatar are facilitating discussions in Cairo, aiming for a comprehensive ceasefire that includes a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the release of Palestinian prisoners. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire.
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The UK has lifted sanctions on several Syrian ministries and organizations, aiming to support the country's economic recovery under interim President Ahmed al-Shara. This decision follows the formation of a new government after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, as al-Shara seeks to stabilize Syria and attract foreign investment.
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A magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck near Istanbul at 12:49 PM local time on April 23, 2025, causing panic among residents. While initial reports indicate no major damage, at least 151 people were injured as they evacuated buildings. Aftershocks have followed, raising concerns about safety in the region.
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Pakistan is poised to leverage its vast mineral wealth, particularly at Reko Diq, attracting investments from China, Saudi Arabia, and the US. Analysts suggest this could help the country escape its economic stagnation, but risks remain in navigating geopolitical pressures. Prime Minister Sharif sees this as a chance to revitalize the economy.
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Following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, protests have erupted across Turkey, with thousands demonstrating against what they perceive as politically motivated actions by President Erdogan's government. The situation escalated with the arrest of several municipal officials and a Swedish journalist charged with insulting the president and alleged terror crimes.
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On April 25, 2025, dignitaries including Princess Anne and New Zealand's Prime Minister gathered at Gallipoli to commemorate Anzac Day, honoring the sacrifices of soldiers during World War I. The day was marred by protests in Australia, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding Indigenous rights.