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World News

Fresh news brought to you daily from around the world. Hot news, breaking stories as they happen.

India Condemns ‘Hellhole’ Comment Shared by Trump Amid Citizenship Debate

India has criticised remarks shared by U.S. President Donald Trump that described the country as a “hellhole”, calling the language uninformed and inappropriate as tensions briefly surfaced in the otherwise close relationship between the two nations. The comments originated from conservative radio host Michael Savage during an episode of The Savage Nation. Trump posted a transcript of the programme on his Truth Social platform on Thursday without adding any commentary.

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Remarks linked to birthright citizenship debate
In the transcript, Savage criticised the U.S. policy of birthright citizenship and referenced immigration from several countries.
“A baby here becomes an instant citizen, and then they bring the entire family in from China or India or some other hellhole on the planet,” Savage said, according to the transcript shared by Trump.
Savage also claimed that newer immigrant communities had “almost no loyalty” to the United States, contrasting them with earlier waves of immigrants from Europe. Reuters said it could not immediately reach Savage for comment.
Trump has been pushing to restrict birthright citizenship in the United States, arguing that the policy encourages immigration abuses. The proposal has triggered legal challenges and is currently being considered by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Earlier this month, Trump attended a hearing on the issue in person, marking a rare visit by a sitting president to the court.
India calls comments inappropriate
India’s foreign ministry responded strongly to the remarks late on Thursday.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the comments were “obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste”.
“They certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-US relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests,” he said in a statement.
The U.S. embassy in New Delhi sought to ease tensions, highlighting Trump’s previous remarks about India.
“The president has said ‘India is a great country with a very good friend of mine at the top’,” the embassy said.
China’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Political reaction in India
India’s main opposition party, the Congress party, condemned the remarks and urged the government to respond more forcefully.
In a post on X, the party described the “hellhole” comment as “extremely insulting and anti-India” and said it offended people across the country.
The party also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to raise the matter directly with Trump and lodge a formal protest.
Government data shows nearly 5.5 million people of Indian origin live in the United States. Indian Americans, along with Chinese Americans, represent the largest groups of Asian origin in the country.
Relations between Washington and New Delhi
Trump and Modi maintained close ties during Trump’s first term in office. However, relations cooled after India faced some of the highest tariffs imposed by the United States last year.
Many of those tariffs were rolled back earlier this year, and the two countries are now working toward a trade agreement intended to prevent new tariff increases and expand bilateral commerce.
Despite occasional disputes, the United States and India have continued to cooperate closely on trade, security and strategic issues.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 25 April 2026
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Epstein Housed Abuse Victims in London Flats After UK Police Declined Probe

Women who say they were abused by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein were housed in several London flats paid for by the financier, according to evidence uncovered in a BBC investigation. Documents from the so-called Epstein files indicate that at least four apartments in the London borough of Kensington and Chelsea were rented for young women linked to Epstein. Receipts, emails and bank records show the properties were used in the years after British police chose not to pursue an investigation into trafficking allegations raised by Virginia Giuffre in 2015.

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Six women who stayed in the flats have since come forward as victims of Epstein’s abuse, the BBC said. Many of the women were from Russia, eastern Europe and other countries. Some had been brought to the UK after Giuffre told police she had been trafficked to London and forced to have sex with Prince Andrew in 2001, an allegation he has repeatedly denied.
London properties linked to trafficking network
The BBC reviewed millions of pages of documents gathered by the United States Department of Justice as part of its investigation into Epstein.
The records suggest Epstein’s operation in the UK was more extensive than previously known. The flats provided accommodation for women who were sometimes pressured to recruit others into the trafficking network.

Emails in the files also show that some of the women were regularly transported between London and Paris on the Eurostar to visit Epstein.
According to the documents, Epstein purchased at least 53 train tickets for women travelling between France and England from 2011 to 2019. Thirty-three of those tickets were bought after Giuffre made her complaint to the Metropolitan Police.
In the final six months before his arrest in July 2019, women were transported between the two cities ten times, including one journey made just over two weeks before Epstein was detained by US authorities.
Ongoing contact with women in London
Messages found in the files indicate Epstein remained in contact with women living in the London flats shortly before his arrest. In one Skype exchange with a young Russian woman living in one of the properties, he described himself jokingly as her “landlord”, noting that unlike most landlords he paid the rent.
Financial records show Epstein sometimes covered everyday living costs. In one case, a woman living in an apartment had a credit card linked to Epstein’s account and a monthly allowance of $2,000.
Other records show payments for English-language courses and discussions about one of Epstein’s companies acting as a financial sponsor for a university art programme.
Despite the desirable locations, emails suggest the apartments were occasionally overcrowded, with some women sleeping on sofas. Correspondence also indicates that Epstein sometimes responded angrily when the women complained about conditions.
Questions over missed opportunities to investigate
Criticism has been directed at British authorities for failing to launch a criminal investigation into Epstein’s activities in the UK.
Human rights lawyer Tessa Gregory said she was surprised no inquiry had been opened, noting that credible allegations of trafficking place a legal obligation on the state to conduct an effective investigation.
Former Metropolitan Police Service detective Kevin Hyland said police had missed opportunities to pursue the case, arguing that travel and financial data could have been used to identify suspicious patterns involving groups of young women.
The Metropolitan Police said officers followed “reasonable lines of inquiry” after Giuffre’s complaint and interviewed her multiple times while cooperating with US investigators.
Information shared with US investigators
Emails in the files show other British agencies also passed information about Epstein to American authorities.
A 2020 memo from the National Crime Agency to the FBI referenced allegations connected to Clare Hazell, a socialite who had flown on Epstein’s private jet numerous times. Hazell, who denied wrongdoing during her lifetime, died last year.
The NCA also provided financial intelligence to the FBI, including payments linked to the rent of one of the London flats.
The Metropolitan Police said it is currently participating in a national policing group reviewing information released in the Epstein files, including material suggesting London airports may have been used as transit points for trafficking.
Survivors and campaigners are calling for a public inquiry to determine how Epstein’s activities continued for years without a full UK investigation.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 25 April 2026
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Trump Photo Overshadows Women’s Tennis Champions

A photograph taken during a White House celebration for US collegiate champions has triggered criticism online after the women athletes being honoured were positioned behind a row of men, partially obscuring them in the image. The University of Georgia women’s tennis team visited the White House on Tuesday as part of an event recognising several National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) title-winning teams. The team secured the NCAA Division I women’s tennis championship in May last year.

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In a photograph posted by a White House press aide, President Donald Trump stands at the front of a stage with five male members of the Georgia athletics staff. Behind them, the female players are arranged on risers in two rows.
Critics said the arrangement appeared to place the athletes being honoured out of view.
Photo arrangement sparks reaction
The men standing beside the president included Georgia deputy athletic director Ford Williams, athletic director Josh Brooks, head coach Drake Bernstein, associate head coach Jarryd Chaplin and assistant coach Will Reynolds.
The players positioned behind them were Anastasiia Lopata, Mai Nirundorn, Aysegul Mert, Sarah Branicki and Alexandra Vecic in the back row; Tatum Buffington, Guillermina Grant, Haley Gaudette and Sofia Rojas in the middle row; and Mell Reasco and Hayden Mulberry at the front.
Dasha Vidmanova, one of the team’s leading players, was not present. She was competing in qualifying matches at the Madrid Open at the time of the visit. Vidmanova is only the third women’s tennis player to win NCAA national titles in team, singles and doubles competition.
Former tennis champion Martina Navratilova was among those who criticised the image, posting on social media: “A photo is worth a thousand words.”
Online commenters also questioned why the athletes appeared behind staff members in the photograph.
Video shows greeting with staff members
A video shared by the same press aide showed Trump approaching the group and shaking hands with the five male staff members standing at the front. In the clip, he does not shake hands with the players positioned behind them.
Later the same day, the Georgia women’s tennis team posted the photograph on its official social media account, writing that it was “an honor” to represent the university at the White House and thanking the president for hosting the team.
The Georgia squad was one of seven championship teams invited to Washington this week to mark recent collegiate sporting victories.
White House sports visits sometimes contentious
Visits to the White House by championship teams are a long-standing tradition in American sport. However, such invitations have occasionally drawn political attention in recent years.
Before 2019, no women’s championship team had visited the White House on its own during Trump’s presidency, though some had attended events that included both men’s and women’s teams.
Four of the teams recognised at Tuesday’s event were women’s teams, alongside a mixed-gender rifle team.
Earlier this year, the US women’s ice hockey team declined an invitation to the White House after winning gold at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. Players cited scheduling conflicts and prior commitments.
The decision followed remarks Trump made during a phone call with the US men’s hockey team, in which he joked about needing to invite the women’s team as well. The men later attended a White House event and were guests at the State of the Union address.
Women’s team captain Hilary Knight later described the comment as a “distasteful joke” that overshadowed the team’s Olympic achievement.
Comparisons with earlier criticism
The tennis team photograph has also prompted comparisons with earlier moments during Trump’s presidency that drew criticism over representation.
In 2017, an image showing the president signing an anti-abortion measure in the Oval Office while surrounded by eight male advisers prompted backlash from critics who noted the absence of women in the room.
The latest reaction comes amid scrutiny of the administration after several recent cabinet departures involving female officials.



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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 25 April 2026
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US Justice Department Ends Probe Into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell

The US Justice Department has ended its investigation into Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell over alleged cost overruns linked to renovation projects at the central bank’s headquarters, officials said on Friday. US Attorney Jeanine Pirro confirmed that the criminal inquiry would be dropped, with the matter instead handed to the Federal Reserve’s internal watchdog for further review.


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The decision follows months of political tensions surrounding the central bank and criticism from US President Donald Trump over the cost of upgrading Federal Reserve buildings in Washington.
Internal review to continue
Although the Justice Department has stepped back from the investigation, scrutiny of the renovation project will continue through the Federal Reserve’s Office of Inspector General.
Pirro said in a message posted on social media that authorities would not hesitate to reopen a criminal probe if new evidence justified doing so.
A spokesperson for the White House said the administration believed an internal review would be better suited to determine whether public funds had been mismanaged.
“American taxpayers deserve answers about the Federal Reserve’s fiscal mismanagement,” said White House spokesman Kush Desai. He added that the inspector general’s investigative powers made it “best positioned to get to the bottom of the matter”.
The central bank declined to comment on the decision. The inspector general’s office said it was actively conducting its review and would release its findings to Congress and the public once the process was complete. No timeline was provided.
Political tensions around Powell’s leadership
The investigation emerged during a prolonged dispute between Trump and Powell over monetary policy.
Trump has repeatedly urged the Federal Reserve to reduce interest rates since returning to the White House last year. Powell and other policymakers have resisted those calls, arguing that rate decisions must be guided by economic data rather than political pressure.
During the dispute, Trump publicly criticised Powell, calling him a “knucklehead” and accusing him of doing “a lousy job” for refusing to cut borrowing costs.
Lower interest rates typically stimulate borrowing and economic activity, while higher rates are used by central banks to slow spending and contain inflation.
Trump has long advocated lower rates, reflecting his background as a property developer who frequently relied on borrowed financing.
Renovation costs spark controversy
The dispute intensified last summer after Trump criticised the cost of renovation works at Federal Reserve buildings in Washington.
The president claimed the project could reach $3.1bn (£2.3bn), significantly higher than the central bank’s estimate of roughly $2.5bn.
Federal Reserve officials have said the upgrades — covering the Eccles Building and offices at 1951 Constitution Avenue — are the first major renovation works since the structures were built in the 1930s. The project includes extensive modernisation and the removal of asbestos and lead contamination.
Earlier this year Powell revealed that the Justice Department had issued subpoenas related to testimony he gave to a Senate committee about the renovation programme.
Calling the investigation “unprecedented”, Powell suggested it was linked to political pressure following the Federal Reserve’s refusal to cut interest rates.
He warned at the time that the independence of the US central bank could be at risk if monetary policy became subject to political influence.
Succession battle in the Senate
The probe also became entangled in a political dispute over Powell’s potential successor.
Powell’s term as chair is set to expire on 15 May. Trump has nominated former Federal Reserve governor Kevin Warsh to take over the role.
However, Republican senator Thom Tillis had withheld his support for Warsh’s nomination unless the administration abandoned the investigation into Powell.
Powell has indicated he plans to remain in the position until the Senate confirms a successor.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 25 April 2026
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US Policy Shift Sparks New Row Over Falklands Sovereignty

The UK government has reiterated that sovereignty over the Falkland Islands rests with Britain after reports suggested the United States could reconsider its stance on the disputed territory. Downing Street issued the statement following a Reuters report about an internal Pentagon email that allegedly outlined potential diplomatic measures against NATO allies considered unsupportive of the US during its war with Iran.

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Among the options discussed in the reported message was the possibility of reviewing Washington’s position on Britain’s claim to the Falkland Islands. The email also reportedly raised the idea of seeking Spain’s suspension from NATO due to its opposition to the conflict.
The British government responded by stressing that the status of the islands is not in question.
UK Emphasises Islanders’ Right to Decide
A spokesperson for the prime minister said the Falkland Islands had voted overwhelmingly to remain a British Overseas Territory and that the government continues to support the principle of self-determination.
“The Falkland Islands have hugely voted overwhelmingly in favour of remaining a UK overseas territory,” the spokesperson said. “We have always stood behind the islanders’ right to self-determination and the fact that sovereignty rests with the UK.”
The official added that the government’s position has been communicated clearly to successive US administrations.
“We could not be clearer about the UK’s position,” the spokesperson said. “Sovereignty rests with the UK and the islanders’ right to self-determination is paramount.”
BBC News said it has not seen the reported Pentagon email and has contacted the US Department of Defense for comment.
NATO Membership Question Raised
The internal communication cited by Reuters reportedly proposed several measures involving NATO partners. One suggestion included seeking Spain’s suspension from the alliance because of its stance against the US military campaign in Iran.
However, a NATO official indicated that the organisation’s founding treaty does not contain any provision allowing for the suspension or expulsion of member states.
Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, also played down the significance of the report, saying his government responds only to formal positions issued by Washington.
“We do not work based on emails,” he said. “We work with official documents and official positions taken, in this case, by the government of the United States.”
Long-Running Dispute With Argentina
The Falkland Islands, located in the South Atlantic about 300 miles (480km) east of Argentina, have long been the subject of a sovereignty dispute between London and Buenos Aires.
Tensions over the territory escalated in 1982 when Argentina’s military ruler at the time, Leopoldo Galtieri, ordered forces to seize the islands. Britain responded by sending a naval task force to retake the territory.
After a 10-week conflict, Argentine forces surrendered. The war resulted in the deaths of 649 Argentine military personnel, 255 British service members and three Falkland Islanders.
Argentina continues to claim sovereignty over the territory, referring to it as the Malvinas.
Diplomatic Tensions With Washington
The report about the possible policy review comes amid strains between the US and the UK over the conflict involving Iran.
President Donald Trump has previously expressed dissatisfaction with the level of British support for the US campaign. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has repeatedly said Britain will not become involved in a broader regional war.
The development also surfaced just days before King Charles and Queen Camilla were scheduled to travel to Washington for a visit that includes a meeting with President Trump at the White House.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 April 2026
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Prince Harry Visits Kyiv, Urges End to Russia-Ukraine War

Prince Harry made an unannounced visit to Ukraine this week, where he addressed a major security conference and urged an end to the ongoing war with Russia. The Duke of Sussex appeared at the Kyiv Security Forum on Thursday, delivering a keynote speech in which he appealed directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt the conflict that began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

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Harry, the younger son of King Charles III, has visited Ukraine three times since the war began. He now lives in California with his wife, Meghan, after stepping back from official royal duties.
Appeal for an End to the War
Speaking to delegates at the conference in Kyiv, Harry called for an immediate stop to the fighting and warned of the continued human cost of the conflict.
“President Putin, no nation benefits from the continued loss of life we are witnessing,” he said during his address. “There is still a moment — now — to stop this war, to prevent further suffering for Ukrainians and Russians alike, and to choose a different course.”
The war has led to significant casualties and widespread destruction across Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion more than two years ago. Kyiv has relied heavily on support from Western allies to sustain its defence.
Harry’s remarks focused on the humanitarian toll of the war and the urgent need for political action to end the violence.
Call for Continued US Support
During the speech, the Duke also emphasised the importance of continued American backing for Ukraine as the conflict continues.
He described the situation as a test of international commitments and urged Washington to maintain its leadership role in supporting Kyiv.
“This is a moment for American leadership, a moment for America to show that it can honour its international treaty obligations,” he said. He added that such support should be seen not as charity but as part of the United States’ longstanding role in maintaining global security and stability.
The United States has been one of Ukraine’s most significant supporters since the start of the war, providing military aid, financial assistance and diplomatic backing.
Meetings with Veterans and Demining Charity
In addition to attending the forum, Harry is expected to meet participants involved in the Invictus Games, the international sporting event he founded for wounded and injured military personnel.
He is also scheduled to visit the HALO Trust, a humanitarian organisation that works to remove landmines and unexploded ordnance left behind in conflict zones around the world.
Large areas of Ukraine have been contaminated with mines and unexploded explosives during the war, creating ongoing risks for civilians and hampering reconstruction efforts.
Harry has long been involved in initiatives supporting military veterans and humanitarian causes, and his visit is seen as part of those broader efforts.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 April 2026
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US Reclassifies Medical Marijuana to Lower-Risk Category

The acting head of the US Justice Department has signed an order reclassifying state-licensed medical marijuana as a less dangerous drug under federal guidelines, marking a significant shift in the government’s treatment of cannabis. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche approved the change on Thursday, moving marijuana from the most restrictive Schedule I category to Schedule III of the federal drug classification system.

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The adjustment places state-authorised medical marijuana in the same category as certain prescription medications including ketamine and testosterone.
Shift in Federal Drug Classification
Under the federal system administered by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Schedule I substances are defined as drugs with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Schedule III drugs are considered to have a moderate to low risk of physical or psychological dependence.
Although the change aligns federal policy more closely with laws in many US states, marijuana remains illegal under federal law.
The order does not remove cannabis from the federal controlled substances list, legalise recreational marijuana nationwide or permit sales in the same way as alcohol or tobacco.
However, officials say the reclassification could ease some regulatory and tax burdens faced by the cannabis industry and make it easier for scientists to study the drug.
In a statement posted on X, Blanche said the decision would support more rigorous research and improve access to treatment options for patients.

Administration Plans Wider Review
US President Donald Trump announced last year that his administration intended to pursue reclassification of marijuana, though it would stop short of legalising the drug for medical or recreational use at the federal level.
Blanche said the Justice Department and the DEA will now begin evaluating whether marijuana more broadly should be reclassified to Schedule III.
The DEA plans to hold a hearing in late June as part of that review.
According to the Justice Department, the hearing will provide a legal framework to assess potential wider changes to marijuana’s federal status.
Process Began Under Previous Administration
Efforts to reconsider marijuana’s classification began during the presidency of Joe Biden.
In October 2022, Biden asked the Department of Health and Human Services to review the drug’s status under federal law.
At the time, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and Attorney General Merrick Garland were tasked with initiating the administrative process.
The Department of Health and Human Services recommended in August 2023 that marijuana be moved from Schedule I to Schedule III.
The Justice Department later issued a notice of proposed rule-making in May 2024 to begin implementing the change.
A formal hearing on the proposal had been scheduled for January 2025 but was postponed shortly before it was due to begin following a judicial decision.
Widespread Use and Health Concerns
Marijuana remains the most widely used federally illegal drug in the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 52.5 million Americans — nearly one in five — reported using cannabis at least once in 2021.
Recreational marijuana has already been fully legalised in 24 states and the District of Columbia for adults aged 21 and over, allowing possession and limited cultivation.
Public health officials say cannabis may have medical benefits but also carries risks. Research cited by the CDC links cannabis use to potential mental health issues, impaired driving and respiratory or cardiovascular problems.
About three in ten users may develop cannabis use disorder, a condition in which individuals struggle to stop using the drug despite negative health or social effects.
Health authorities also warn that cannabis can affect brain areas linked to memory, learning and decision-making, and may harm brain development in younger people. Use during pregnancy has also been associated with lower birth weight and possible developmental effects.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 April 2026
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US Navy Secretary John Phelan Departs Post With Immediate Effect

The United States has announced the immediate departure of Navy Secretary John Phelan, with the Pentagon confirming that the senior civilian leader of the service has stepped down from his role. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a social media post on Wednesday that Phelan’s exit would take effect immediately. Navy Undersecretary Hung Cao will temporarily assume the position in an acting capacity. No official reason has been provided for the sudden departure.

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Leadership changes inside the Pentagon
Phelan becomes the latest senior military figure to leave the administration of US President Donald Trump in recent months.
The change in leadership follows several other high-level removals across the US military. Earlier this year, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth asked Army Chief of Staff Randy George to step down from his post.
Two additional Army officials — David Hodne and William Green — were also removed from their roles.
Since arriving at the Pentagon, Hegseth has dismissed more than a dozen senior officers, including the chief of naval operations and the Air Force’s vice chief of staff, according to US officials.
While the Pentagon has not explained Phelan’s exit, several US media outlets have reported that tensions had emerged between him and Hegseth, particularly over the implementation of a shipbuilding programme championed by Trump.
Civilian leader of the Navy
As secretary of the Navy, Phelan served as the top civilian authority overseeing the naval service. The position is largely administrative and involves setting policy, supervising recruitment and training, managing budgets and overseeing the construction and maintenance of naval ships and facilities.
Phelan, a businessman who had not previously served in the military, was sworn in as Navy secretary in March 2025 after being nominated by Trump the previous year.
He was also known as a major donor to Trump’s political campaign.
In December, Phelan appeared with the president at Trump’s Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago, when Trump announced plans for a new fleet of heavily armed naval vessels known as the “Golden Fleet”. The proposal included ships that Trump said would be named in his honour.
Acting replacement steps in
Phelan’s acting replacement, Cao, joined the Navy leadership in October 2025 after being confirmed as undersecretary.
A 25-year Navy veteran, he previously ran for the US Senate in Virginia in 2024 with Trump’s endorsement, challenging Democratic senator Tim Kaine. Cao ultimately lost the race.
During that campaign, he criticised diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives within the US military, arguing they distracted from combat readiness.
Former State Department official Andrew Peek said the change in leadership could partly reflect frustrations over progress on naval expansion.
“Eventually, somebody was going to take the fall for the lack of movement on that,” Peek said in comments to the BBC, suggesting disagreements over fleet expansion may have contributed to the decision.
Change comes amid regional tensions
The leadership shift comes during a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East.
The US has maintained a naval blockade of Iranian ports following the recent conflict involving Israel and Iran. Fighting around the Strait of Hormuz — a key corridor for global oil shipments — has continued despite a ceasefire.
Iranian officials said two ships had been seized in the strategic waterway, while the White House signalled that the blockade would remain in place.
US officials say the situation underscores the importance of naval operations in maintaining pressure on Tehran during ongoing regional tensions.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 April 2026S
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Burj Khalifa Could Lose World’s Tallest Building Title as Saudi Mega-Towers Advance

Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building for more than a decade, may soon lose its record as new skyscraper projects in Saudi Arabia move forward. Standing at 828 metres, the landmark tower has dominated global height rankings since its completion in 2010. But two ambitious developments in Saudi Arabia — one already under construction and another in the planning stages — aim to surpass it.

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The most advanced of the projects is Jeddah Economic Company Tower, also known as JEC Tower, which is planned to exceed 1,000 metres in height. If completed as intended, the structure would become the first building to cross the one-kilometre mark and take the title from Dubai’s flagship skyscraper.
A second proposal, known as Rise Tower, has been outlined as part of a broader development in Riyadh. The project envisions a structure reaching two kilometres in height, though it remains at the design stage.
Jeddah tower construction resumes
Construction of the Jeddah Economic Company Tower has faced several interruptions since the project was first announced more than a decade ago.
Work resumed in 2025 after Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal announced the restart on social media. Shortly afterwards, Kingdom Holding Company confirmed that construction activity had officially resumed.
By March 2026, the tower had reportedly risen above its 91st floor, reaching approximately 370 metres. Construction is progressing on a five-day cycle for each floor, supported by an estimated workforce of around 5,200 people.
The skyscraper is designed to include luxury residential apartments, office space and commercial areas. Plans also feature a Four Seasons hotel and an observation deck offering views across the city of Jeddah and the Red Sea.
Glass façade installation has already begun as the building continues to rise.
Developers say the tower will form part of the first phase of Jeddah Economic Company City, a wider urban development project covering around 5.3 million square metres. The initial phase spans about 1.3 million square metres and includes core infrastructure such as electricity, water supply, sewage systems, flood drainage and high-speed internet.
The remaining construction costs — estimated at about 6 billion dirhams — are expected to be funded through internal financing and bank facilities.
Completion of the tower is currently projected for 2028.
Riyadh’s proposed “Rise Tower”
Alongside the Jeddah project, Saudi Arabia is also considering a far larger structure in Riyadh known as Rise Tower.
Global architectural firm HKS revealed concept designs for the building in 2025. Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the proposal envisions a skyscraper reaching around two kilometres in height.
If realised, the structure would significantly surpass any existing building worldwide.
The planned tower would contain about 678 floors, with space allocated for luxury hotels, offices, restaurants and observation decks.
Rise Tower is intended to anchor a large master-planned development known as the North Pole project — a proposed “city of the future” covering roughly 306 square kilometres.
However, the project remains at the design stage and a construction timeline has not yet been confirmed.
Regional rivalry in supertall towers
Dubai may also be preparing a response to the challenge.
Reports in 2024 suggested that Emaar, the developer behind the Burj Khalifa, could be working on plans for another “super tower” in the city aimed at rivaling the existing record holder.
For now, the Burj Khalifa retains its position as the tallest structure ever built. But with construction advancing in Jeddah and ambitious plans emerging in Riyadh, the skyline record could soon shift to Saudi Arabia.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 April 2026
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Cocaine, Cannabis and Pills Sold in UK High Street Mini-Marts, Filming Shows

Cocaine, cannabis, nitrous oxide and prescription medication are being openly offered for sale in convenience stores on high streets in parts of England’s West Midlands, an undercover investigation has found. Secret filming carried out by the BBC revealed that illegal drugs were readily available in several mini-marts across four neighbouring towns. Researchers were able to purchase substances including cannabis and nitrous oxide, while cocaine could be arranged and delivered to the shops.

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Authorities say the findings highlight how organised criminal groups are increasingly using legitimate retail premises to distribute illegal goods.
Undercover purchases in local shops
In Cradley Heath, a shop worker at a mini-mart told an undercover researcher he could supply drugs immediately. During a visit, the researcher was taken to the back of the store and sold 3.5 grams of cannabis for £30.
On a later visit, the same worker arranged for a gram of cocaine to be delivered to the shop, which he then sold for £95.
During the encounter, the worker also displayed photographs of prescription medicines available for sale, including pregabalin — a drug prescribed for conditions such as epilepsy, nerve pain and anxiety. Misuse of the medication has been linked to a rise in deaths in recent years.
When confronted afterwards about the allegations, the shop worker denied any involvement in selling drugs.
The investigation forms part of a broader review of criminal activity on high streets across the UK. An analysis of dozens of local news reports identified more than 70 shops or related premises where drugs — including heroin and crystal meth — had been discovered.
Officials from the National Crime Agency and the Chartered Trading Standards Institute say organised crime networks are increasingly exploiting retail shops as a base for illegal trading.
Concerns across Dudley borough
A few miles away in the borough of Dudley, enforcement officers say similar activity has spread along several high streets.
Kuldeep Maan, a local trading standards lead, said the sale of illegal drugs alongside counterfeit cigarettes and unregulated vape products is the worst he has seen in two decades.
During visits to shops in the towns of Lye and Brierley Hill, undercover filming captured staff offering cannabis, cannabis vape products and nitrous oxide.
Nitrous oxide — often called laughing gas — has legitimate uses in industries such as catering, but supplying or possessing it for recreational inhalation is illegal. Inhaling the gas can cause serious health problems, including potential brain damage.
At one grocery store in Dudley town centre, a researcher asking for laughing gas was instructed to wait outside. Minutes later, a hooded man arrived, accepted £25 in cash and handed over a canister of nitrous oxide.
The shop later denied the allegations.
Local traders say the activity is damaging businesses and making the area feel unsafe. One shop owner described frequent fights and violent incidents on the high street, while another said her premises had been repeatedly targeted by vandals in what she believes is an attempt to force her out.
Calls for stronger action
Reacting to the findings, Liam Byrne, chair of the UK Parliament’s Business and Trade Committee, said the scale and ease of illegal drug sales were deeply concerning.
He called for tougher laws and greater enforcement to prevent organised crime groups operating through legitimate storefronts.
A spokesperson for the Home Office said the government was working with police, the National Crime Agency and trading standards authorities to tackle criminal businesses.
Meanwhile, the Chartered Trading Standards Institute has called for stronger powers to close offending shops. At present, premises can often only be shut for up to three months under anti-social behaviour legislation.
Local authorities say enforcement operations are ongoing. Dudley Council said 42 shops have been closed since launching its Operation Clearance campaign in 2024, although officials say some offenders simply reopen nearby.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 April 2026
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Trump Says King Charles Visit Could Help Repair US–UK Relations

US President Donald Trump has said that the upcoming state visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla could help improve relations between Washington and London, as tensions linger over foreign policy and domestic issues. Speaking in a phone interview with the BBC, Trump said the visit, scheduled to begin next week, would be a positive step for the relationship between the two countries.

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“Absolutely,” he said when asked if the trip could help repair ties. “He’s fantastic. He’s a fantastic man. Absolutely the answer is yes.”
Trump added that he had known the British monarch for many years and described him as “a brave man” and “a great man”.
The King and Queen are due to arrive in the United States on Monday for a four-day visit that will include meetings with the US president and senior officials.
State visit schedule
During their stay in Washington, King Charles is expected to hold a private meeting with Trump at the White House and deliver an address to the US Congress.
After two days in the US capital, the royal couple will travel to New York, Virginia and Bermuda before returning to the UK.

According to the UK Foreign Office, the trip is intended to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence and highlight the long-standing partnership between the two countries. Officials say the visit will celebrate shared history as well as cooperation on security and economic ties.
Differences over policy
Trump also used the interview to comment on his relationship with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, suggesting the UK leader could improve his standing if he altered certain policies.
The US president said Starmer could “recover” politically if he changed his approach to immigration and allowed expanded oil and gas extraction in the North Sea.
The remarks followed criticism Trump posted earlier this week on his social media platform Truth Social, where he described the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the United States as “a really bad pick”.
Trump has repeatedly urged Britain to increase drilling in the North Sea, arguing that it would strengthen energy security.
Starmer responded by saying he makes decisions based on what he believes is in Britain’s national interest.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, the prime minister said the UK would not be drawn into policies or conflicts based on outside pressure.
Iran conflict tensions
Differences have also emerged between the two leaders over the conflict involving Iran.
Trump has criticised the level of support offered by some allies, including the UK, during the crisis. Starmer has maintained that Britain would not become involved in a wider war.
Asked why he wanted allies to participate, Trump said their involvement was not essential but that he wanted to see whether they would support the United States.
“I didn’t need them at all but they should’ve been there,” he said.
The president also claimed that Iran’s military had been severely weakened and said his warnings to Tehran were aimed at encouraging negotiations.
BBC lawsuit
Towards the end of the interview, Trump referenced a defamation lawsuit he has filed against the BBC over a Panorama documentary about the 6 January 2021 attack on the US Capitol.
The case centres on how a speech Trump delivered before the riot was edited in the programme. The broadcaster previously apologised for the edit but rejected calls for compensation and has said it will defend the case in court.
A BBC spokesperson said the organisation believes there is no basis for the claim.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 April 2026
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ICC Confirms Trial of Philippine Ex-President Duterte Over Drug War

Former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte will face trial for crimes against humanity after judges at the International Criminal Court confirmed charges linked to his anti-drug campaign, the court said on Thursday. The 81-year-old is accused of overseeing widespread killings during a controversial “war on drugs” carried out between 2011 and 2019. Pre-trial judges unanimously determined there were substantial grounds to believe Duterte committed the alleged crimes, allowing the case to proceed to a full trial.

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The decision follows multiple attempts by the former leader to secure his release after spending more than a year in detention.
Court rules it has jurisdiction
Duterte has rejected the legitimacy of the proceedings, arguing that the Philippines withdrew from the ICC’s founding treaty, the Rome Statute, during his presidency in 2019.
However, judges in the court’s Pre-Trial Chamber ruled that the tribunal retains jurisdiction because the alleged crimes occurred while the Philippines was still a member state.
The court also confirmed that more than 500 victims have been authorised to participate in the proceedings.
Focus on anti-drug crackdown
At the centre of the case is Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, which drew international condemnation from human rights groups.
Critics say the campaign led to the killing of thousands of suspected drug users and small-time dealers, often without trial, while failing to dismantle major trafficking networks. Police officials have long maintained that officers used lethal force only in self-defence during anti-drug operations.
Duterte has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and dismissed the allegations against him as false.
His legal team also argued that the former president was medically unfit to stand trial, citing claims of cognitive impairment. ICC judges rejected that argument, relying on medical assessments which concluded that he is capable of participating in the proceedings and exercising his legal rights.
Political tensions behind arrest
Duterte arrived in The Hague last year after being arrested at Manila’s airport. His transfer to the court followed political tensions between his daughter, Sara Duterte, and the current Philippine president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr..
The case marks one of the most significant international legal challenges faced by a former Philippine leader.
Mixed reactions in the Philippines
The ICC’s confirmation of charges has been welcomed by several critics of Duterte’s drug war.
Former justice secretary and now lawmaker Leila de Lima, a long-time opponent of the former president, described the decision as an important step toward accountability.
She said the ruling represented a milestone for those seeking justice for victims of the anti-drug campaign, though she acknowledged that the process had taken years to reach this stage.
Human rights group Karapatan also welcomed the development, describing it as recognition of efforts by campaigners to hold officials accountable for the killings.
However, the organisation said the moment was “bittersweet”, noting that the lives lost could not be restored and that families of victims continue to struggle.
The office of the Philippine president, known as Malacañang Palace, also said it welcomed the court’s decision.
Despite the charges, Duterte continues to enjoy strong support among a section of the Philippine public, with some of his backers staging protests against his detention and the ICC case.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 April 2026
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Trump to Host Lebanon, Israel Envoys at White House for Ceasefire Talks

The administration of Donald Trump will host Lebanese and Israeli representatives at the White House on Thursday for a new round of discussions aimed at extending a fragile ceasefire between the two sides. Officials in Lebanon plan to request a one-month extension of the truce, which was brokered by the United States and is scheduled to expire on Sunday. The ceasefire followed weeks of hostilities between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.
The talks come as Washington seeks to stabilise tensions on the Lebanese front while broader efforts to negotiate an end to the regional conflict with Iran remain stalled.

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Talks Move to the White House
The meeting was initially expected to take place at the US State Department, following an earlier round of negotiations last week led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, the venue was moved to the White House, where Trump will personally greet the delegations.
According to a US official speaking on condition of anonymity, the president plans to welcome the envoys upon their arrival.
Both Israel and Lebanon will be represented by their ambassadors in Washington. In addition, the US ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, will participate in the discussions — an addition to the negotiating team compared with the previous round.
Lebanon Seeks Ceasefire Extension
Lebanese officials say they will formally ask for the ceasefire to be prolonged for another month. The extension request includes maintaining a halt to attacks on civilian infrastructure and populated areas.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said the extension should also ensure an end to the destruction of homes and strikes affecting civilians, places of worship, journalists and the medical and education sectors.
A Lebanese official confirmed that Beirut intends to propose a one-month continuation of the current truce.
Aoun also expressed hope of visiting Washington to meet Trump in person. However, he rejected suggestions that he planned to hold a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, contradicting an earlier statement by Trump.
Israel and Lebanon have technically remained in a state of war for decades and have rarely held direct talks. The current negotiations represent one of the most direct diplomatic contacts between the two sides since 1993.
Violence Continues Despite Truce
Hostilities have continued even as negotiations proceed. Israeli strikes killed five people in Lebanon on Wednesday, according to local authorities.
Lebanon’s state-run news agency reported that an Israeli drone strike on Thursday targeted a vehicle near Nabatieh, about 35 kilometres north of the Israeli border.
Under the terms of the ceasefire, Israel says it retains the right to strike against threats it considers imminent.
Hezbollah said it had carried out at least two attacks on Israeli troops in southern Lebanon and claimed it had targeted an Israeli reconnaissance drone. The group described the operations as retaliation for what it called Israeli violations of the ceasefire.
Among those killed in Wednesday’s strikes was Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil.
Israeli forces have also established a security zone extending roughly 10 kilometres inside southern Lebanon, taking control of several villages near the border.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said Hezbollah remained the primary barrier to normal relations between the two countries.
Wider Regional Tensions
The ceasefire negotiations are taking place against the backdrop of wider regional tensions involving Iran and the United States.
Tehran had previously called for a truce in Lebanon as a condition for resuming negotiations with Washington over ending weeks of fighting in the region. However, Iran declined to attend a second round of talks with the United States this week, citing a continuing US naval blockade.
Despite the impasse, Trump has said the truce with Iran would be extended indefinitely.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 April 2026
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EU Clears €90bn Ukraine Loan as Oil Pipeline Restart Breaks Deadlock

The European Union has moved forward with a €90bn ($97bn) loan package for Ukraine after oil deliveries through a key pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia resumed, ending a months-long dispute that had delayed the funding.
EU ambassadors meeting in Brussels gave preliminary approval to the financial package and a new round of sanctions against Russia on Wednesday. Final sign-off from EU governments is expected on Thursday.
The breakthrough came shortly after Ukraine confirmed it had restarted the flow of Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline following repairs to infrastructure damaged earlier this year.
Pipeline restart breaks stalemate
The loan had originally been agreed by EU leaders last December. However, Hungary’s prime minister Viktor Orbán blocked the release of the funds in February after oil shipments through Ukraine to Hungary and Slovakia were disrupted by damage caused during Russian attacks. Budapest insisted that oil deliveries resume before it would allow the financial assistance to proceed.

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Ukrainian officials said repairs were completed this week, allowing the pipeline to be pressurised again. Slovakia’s economy minister Denisa Sakova said energy operator Ukrtransnaft informed authorities that the process began on Wednesday morning and that crude oil would start reaching Slovakia on Thursday.
Hungarian energy company Mol said it also expected the first shipments to arrive by Thursday.
A Ukrainian government source said the transit of oil restarted at 12:35 local time (09:35 GMT), although the volume of crude being pumped was not immediately clear.
Political change in Hungary
Orbán, who remains in office in a caretaker role after losing Hungary’s election last weekend, had signalled that he would remove his veto once deliveries resumed.
His defeat has also eased tensions between Budapest and Brussels. Hungary’s incoming leader, Péter Magyar, has pledged to improve relations with the EU after years of disputes over policy and funding.
During the election campaign, Orbán accused Ukraine of imposing an “oil blockade” on Hungary and Slovakia and alleged that EU institutions were siding with Kyiv.
Satellite imagery taken in January indicated that a major oil tank facility in Brody, western Ukraine, had been damaged, contributing to the interruption in supplies. Ukrainian officials said repair work had been complicated by ongoing Russian attacks.
Funding seen as vital for Kyiv
EU officials have described the loan as a crucial financial lifeline for Ukraine as the war with Russia continues.
According to Ukrainian deputy prime minister Taras Kachka, about two-thirds of the funding will be used to strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities, with the remainder allocated to broader financial assistance.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the approval would demonstrate continued European support for Kyiv.
“Ukraine really needs this loan and it’s also a sign that Russia cannot outlast Ukraine,” she said ahead of the meeting of EU ambassadors.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv had fulfilled its commitments to the EU and welcomed the expected release of the funds.
“It is important that the European support package becomes operational swiftly,” he said, although Ukrainian media reported that the money may still take several weeks to reach the country.
New uncertainty over German supplies
In a separate development, Russia said it plans to halt oil flows from Kazakhstan through another section of the Druzhba pipeline that supplies Germany from 1 May.
Germany stopped importing Russian crude following Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, replacing it with oil from Kazakhstan delivered through the same network.
The PCK refinery in Schwedt, which supplies fuel and heating oil to Berlin and surrounding regions, relies heavily on those shipments.
German economy minister Katherina Reiche said alternative supply routes through the ports of Gdansk and Rostock were available and expressed confidence that production could continue without disruption.
META: The EU has moved to approve a €90bn loan for Ukraine after oil deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline resumed, ending a dispute that had led Hungary to block the funding.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 April 2026
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South Korean Fighter Jets Collide Mid-Air as Pilots Take Photos During Flight

Two South Korean fighter jets collided during a training mission in 2021 after pilots attempted to take photographs and video of the aircraft while in flight, according to a government investigation. The incident occurred near the central city of Daegu and involved two F-15K Slam Eagle aircraft operated by the Republic of Korea Air Force.

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Both pilots survived the mid-air collision without injury, though the aircraft sustained significant damage. Repair costs were estimated at 880 million won (about $596,000 or £440,500).
Details of the event were outlined in a report released on Wednesday by the Board of Audit and Inspection.
Photo-taking during flight
Investigators found the crash occurred while one of the pilots attempted to photograph the aircraft during what was intended to be his final flight with the unit.
According to the audit report, taking pictures during notable missions had been a common practice among pilots at the time.
The pilot, flying the wingman aircraft, had mentioned his intention to take photos during the mission briefing. As the formation returned to base, he began using his personal mobile phone to capture images while following the lead jet.
After noticing the activity, the pilot of the lead aircraft asked another crew member on board to record video of the wingman aircraft in flight.
Risky manoeuvre before collision
While the filming was taking place, the wingman pilot attempted a sudden manoeuvre to make his aircraft more visible on camera.
He raised the jet’s altitude and rolled the aircraft, bringing the two fighter jets dangerously close together.
The lead aircraft tried to descend quickly to avoid contact, but the jets ultimately collided. The impact damaged the left wing of the lead aircraft and the tail stabiliser of the wingman jet.
Despite the damage, the wingman pilot was able to regain control and safely return the aircraft to base.
Dispute over financial penalty
Following the incident, the air force suspended the wingman pilot. He has since left military service and now works for a commercial airline.
The air force initially sought to recover the full repair cost of 880 million won from him. The pilot appealed the penalty, prompting a formal investigation by the audit authority.
During the inquiry, he acknowledged that his abrupt manoeuvre contributed to the crash but argued the lead pilot had effectively accepted the filming by allowing the video recording to proceed.
The audit board ultimately reduced the financial penalty, ruling that the pilot should pay 88 million won — one-tenth of the amount originally demanded.
Investigators said the military also shared responsibility because it had not clearly regulated the personal use of cameras by pilots during flights.
The board further noted the pilot’s previously strong service record and the fact that he managed to guide the damaged aircraft safely back to base after the collision.
The report did not state whether disciplinary action was taken against the other pilots involved.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 April 2026
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Ghislaine Maxwell Seeks to Overturn Sex Trafficking Conviction

Ghislaine Maxwell, a former associate of financier Jeffrey Epstein, has asked a federal judge in New York to overturn her sex trafficking conviction and release her from prison. Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year sentence for her role in recruiting and grooming underage girls for Epstein. Federal prosecutors confirmed that they recently received a new filing from Maxwell, which she prepared herself.

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According to a letter submitted to the court, officials received a FedEx package marked with a shipping date of 16 April 2026 that contained a USB drive holding an amended legal motion and supporting documents.
The filing has not yet appeared on the public court docket, and prosecutors said they have not disclosed the specific arguments contained in the submission.
Latest legal effort
In their letter to the court, prosecutors said Maxwell’s latest request appears to repeat elements of a previous attempt to dismiss her conviction. That earlier motion was rejected by both a federal district court and an appeals court in 2024.
After those rulings, Maxwell sought to bring the case before the U.S. Supreme Court, which declined to hear her appeal.
With her direct appeals exhausted, Maxwell filed a habeas corpus petition in December 2025, arguing that new evidence had emerged that could affect her case. A federal judge subsequently allowed her to amend that petition in February after the U.S. Justice Department released documents related to Epstein.
The amended filing submitted this month is part of that ongoing effort to challenge her conviction.
Previous arguments rejected
Maxwell has previously argued that her conviction and sentence should be overturned because she did not receive a fair trial. She has also maintained that she should have been protected by a non-prosecution agreement reached by Epstein’s lawyers during his 2008 plea deal with federal prosecutors in Florida.
Courts rejected those claims during earlier appeals.
Her legal team has also argued that the prosecution relied on allegations related to grooming victims that they said did not constitute a criminal offense. Judges reviewing the case dismissed those arguments.
Role in Epstein trafficking scheme
Maxwell was convicted in 2021 of assisting Epstein in the sexual exploitation of underage girls. Prosecutors said she played a central role in a scheme to recruit and groom teenage girls to give Epstein massages that often became sexual.
Authorities said some of the victims were as young as 14 years old. Maxwell was sentenced the following year to 20 years in federal prison.
Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.
Interview reference to Trump
Maxwell was also interviewed last month by former U.S. deputy attorney general Todd Blanche. According to people familiar with the discussion, Maxwell said she had never witnessed Donald Trump engage in behaviour that raised concerns during the time she knew him.
Details of that interview have not been formally disclosed in court filings.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 April 2026
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Labour MPs Hold Off Ousting Starmer Despite Mounting Pressure

Labour MPs unhappy with the party’s direction are holding off from launching a leadership challenge against Prime Minister Keir Starmer, even as polling numbers fall and expectations grow of heavy losses in upcoming elections. The party faces a difficult electoral test, with forecasts suggesting it could lose control of Wales, shed council seats across England and struggle to make gains in Scotland.

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Starmer has also faced criticism over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States and the dismissal of senior civil servant Olly Robbins after a dispute over security vetting.
With elections looming, some in UK Parliament are asking why a leadership contest is not expected immediately after the anticipated losses on 8 May. While Jonathan Brash has publicly urged Starmer to resign and set a timetable for his departure, few colleagues have echoed that call openly.
No rush for a contest
Several MPs say dissatisfaction with Starmer is widespread but there is little appetite to trigger a leadership race without a clear successor.
One veteran Labour MP described the situation as politically terminal for the prime minister but said the sense that he may not lead the party into the next election had reduced the urgency for an immediate contest.
Others are wary of installing a temporary leader. Some argue that the party must ensure that any leadership contest produces someone capable of leading Labour into a general election, warning that frequent changes at the top would damage public trust.
Across Labour’s ideological factions, there appears to be agreement that there is no obvious successor currently sitting in Parliament.
A centre-left MP said members of the Parliamentary Labour Party believed the situation was “terminal” but felt that neither Wes Streeting nor Angela Rayner offered a clear solution. Some MPs have criticised Streeting’s links to Mandelson, while others question whether Rayner could win a general election.
Attention turns outside Westminster
Amid the lack of consensus in Westminster, some MPs have discussed the possibility of a candidate from outside Parliament. One name frequently mentioned is Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester.
Burnham was blocked earlier this year from contesting a by-election in Gorton and Denton, a move some MPs now see as significant. Supporters believe he could unite different wings of the party, though any return to Westminster would require a safe seat to become available and approval from Labour’s ruling body, the Labour Party National Executive Committee.
Others argue that Burnham’s absence from Parliament may have slowed any potential leadership challenge. One MP suggested that if he had already returned to Westminster, momentum for change might have been stronger.
Cabinet manoeuvring and fraying loyalties
Attention has also turned to the cabinet, where some MPs believe senior ministers could ultimately push Starmer to step aside, echoing the internal pressure that led to the fall of Margaret Thatcher in 1990.
Several ministers have publicly distanced themselves from decisions associated with the prime minister, including the Mandelson appointment. Ed Miliband signalled disagreement with the move, while Yvette Cooper and Pat McFadden criticised attempts by Downing Street to explore an ambassadorial role for communications chief Matthew Doyle.
Starmer seeks to rebuild support
Despite the pressure, Starmer has been working to shore up support among backbenchers. He has hosted receptions and meetings with MPs at Chequers and held discussions with various parliamentary groups, including the “Red Wall” MPs representing constituencies vulnerable to the rise of the Reform UK party.
Participants say the meetings have been constructive, with MPs given the opportunity to speak frankly.
Changes within Downing Street have also eased tensions. After the departure of chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, some MPs report improved engagement with the prime minister’s office. His political director Amy Richards has been credited with broadening outreach to MPs.
However, discontent remains in parts of the parliamentary party. Some members of Labour’s women MPs group are said to be angry over recent controversies involving Doyle and are pressing for more women to be promoted to senior roles.
For now, despite deep unease and gloomy electoral expectations, Labour MPs appear reluctant to move against their leader without a clear alternative.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 April 2026
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Trump Crypto Venture Sued by Billionaire Investor Over Token Dispute

A cryptocurrency project linked to the family of US President Donald Trump is facing a lawsuit from billionaire investor Justin Sun, who accuses the company of improperly seizing control of his digital tokens and restricting his rights as a holder. Sun, a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency sector and founder of the TRON blockchain platform, has filed a complaint in federal court in San Francisco alleging that the firm behind the World Liberty Financial project engaged in what he described as an “illegal scheme” to take control of his holdings.

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The company has rejected the claims, describing the lawsuit as an attempt by Sun to divert attention from alleged misconduct on his part.
According to the lawsuit, Sun invested $45m (£33m) in the World Liberty Financial project and accumulated a large number of its WLFI tokens. At certain points, he said the value of his holdings exceeded $1bn.
Dispute over token control
Sun claims that company executives froze his tokens and removed his ability to participate in governance decisions tied to the cryptocurrency project. He also alleges the company threatened to permanently eliminate the tokens by “burning” them — a process that removes digital assets from circulation.
In a statement posted on social media announcing the legal action, Sun said the steps were taken without proper justification.

“They wrongfully froze all of my tokens, stripped me of my right to vote on governance proposals, and have threatened to permanently destroy my tokens,” he wrote.
The lawsuit further alleges that early promises made to investors — including that token holders would eventually be able to trade their holdings freely — were misleading. While WLFI tokens later became tradable more broadly, Sun claims he has been prevented from selling any of his.
Company rejects allegations
World Liberty Financial has strongly denied the accusations.
Zach Witkoff, one of the project’s co-founders and the son of US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, said the claims were unfounded and that the company had acted to protect itself and its users.
“His claims are entirely meritless, and World Liberty looks forward to getting the case thrown out promptly,” Witkoff said, adding that Sun had engaged in conduct that required the company to intervene.
Eric Trump, who co-founded the project with his father, also dismissed the case. In a social media response, he mocked Sun by referencing the investor’s purchase of a conceptual artwork consisting of a banana taped to a wall.
In 2024, Sun bought the piece — created by artist Maurizio Cattelan — for around $6m and later publicly ate the banana.
Falling token value and investor concerns
The dispute comes amid a steep decline in the price of the WLFI token. Since September, its value has dropped from about 31 cents to just under eight cents.
Sun said he had backed the project partly because of its association with the Trump family and his own long-standing support for cryptocurrency. In July 2025 he also purchased $100m worth of meme coins linked to Donald Trump.
However, the lawsuit accuses some individuals involved with World Liberty Financial, including co-founder Chase Herro, of exploiting the Trump brand for personal gain.
Separately, some investors have raised concerns about the company borrowing against the value of its tokens.
Wider scrutiny of Trump-linked businesses
The case emerges as regulators and politicians continue to scrutinise cryptocurrency projects tied to prominent political figures.
The US Securities and Exchange Commission recently dropped an investigation into Sun related to allegations that influencers were paid to promote his crypto ventures without proper disclosure. Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren has questioned whether the decision was connected to Sun’s investments in Trump-related crypto projects.
In a separate development, the company behind Trump’s social media platform Truth Social has replaced its chief executive, Devin Nunes, following a significant fall in the firm’s share price.
Kevin McGurn, a media executive who has previously worked at Hulu, Vevo and T-Mobile, has been appointed as interim chief executive. Over the past year, shares in Trump Media & Technology have lost nearly two-thirds of their value as the platform struggles to expand its audience beyond the US president’s supporters.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 April 2026
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UK and France agree £662m pact to tackle small boat crossings

The UK and France have agreed a £662m deal aimed at strengthening efforts to prevent migrants from crossing the English Channel in small boats, including deploying additional riot-trained police and advanced surveillance technology along the French coast. Under the three-year agreement, British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to sign the deal with French authorities on Thursday.

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The plan includes sending at least 50 officers trained in riot and crowd-control tactics to French beaches where tensions with migrants and people smugglers have sometimes escalated.
Expanded patrols and surveillance
The agreement also commits France to deploying new equipment to track smuggling operations and intercept migrants attempting the journey to Britain. This includes drones worth millions of pounds, two additional helicopters and a new camera monitoring system.
Officials say the measures are designed to identify and disrupt people-smuggling networks while preventing migrants from boarding boats on the northern French coastline.
The deal will significantly increase the number of personnel involved in the operation. Nearly 1,100 law enforcement, intelligence and military officers will be deployed in northern France once the agreement takes effect this summer. That represents an increase of about 42% compared with the previous arrangement.
French authorities will also provide a new vessel and more than 20 additional maritime officers to target so-called “taxi boats”, which collect migrants already waiting in shallow waters before taking them across the Channel.
Funding tied to results
Of the £662m package, £501m will be spent on expanding beach patrols and enforcement operations. A further £160m will be made available if the strategy proves effective in reducing crossings.
For the first time, UK ministers have said about £100m of the funding could be redirected or withdrawn after a year if French authorities fail to significantly reduce the number of people attempting the journey.
Mahmood said the UK-France partnership had already prevented tens of thousands of migrants from setting off towards Britain but argued further action was necessary.
“Our work with the French has stopped tens of thousands of illegal migrants boarding boats headed to Britain,” she said. “But we must do more. This landmark deal will stop illegal migrants making the perilous journey and put people smugglers behind bars.”
Political criticism and rising crossings
Opposition politicians criticised the agreement, arguing the UK government was committing large sums without firm guarantees.
Conservative MP Chris Philp, the party’s shadow home secretary, said the government was handing over “half a billion pounds of our money with no conditions at all”, adding that France should receive funding only if it stops most attempted crossings.
Channel crossings have risen in recent years. A total of 41,472 people arrived in the UK by small boat in 2025.
So far in 2026, more than 6,000 people have reached the UK by this route. On Saturday alone, 602 migrants arrived in Dover on nine boats.
The previous UK-France agreement, signed in 2023, provided £476m to support patrols along the French coast and involved around 700 officers monitoring beaches to disrupt smuggling gangs.
Debate over broader migration policy
Political parties and advocacy groups remain divided over how to address the crossings.
Reform UK figures have argued Britain should withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights to allow stricter migration enforcement. Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats say the focus should be on dismantling smuggling networks and establishing large-scale returns agreements with France.
Humanitarian groups warn that policing alone will not stop migrants attempting the dangerous journey. The Refugee Council said the lack of safe legal routes to Britain forces vulnerable people to rely on smugglers and small boats.
Separately, the Labour government signed a “one-in-one-out” arrangement with France in August 2025 allowing the UK to return some migrants who arrived by boat while accepting an equivalent number of asylum seekers from France who had not attempted the crossing.
By February this year, 305 people had been returned to France under the scheme, while 367 had been admitted to the UK.
The government also said nearly 60,000 illegal migrants and foreign criminals have been removed or deported since it took office.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 April 2026
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Lufthansa to Cancel 20,000 Summer Flights as Jet Fuel Costs Soar

German airline Lufthansa has announced plans to cancel 20,000 short-haul flights across Europe during the summer season, citing a sharp rise in jet fuel prices that has rendered many routes financially unsustainable. The carrier said the cuts would primarily affect its European network and are intended to reduce fuel consumption as operating costs surge. Jet fuel prices have roughly doubled since the start of the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which has disrupted energy production and transport routes across the Middle East.

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Other airlines have also taken steps to manage rising costs. Companies including Air France–KLM Group and Delta Air Lines have temporarily trimmed parts of their flight schedules, while some carriers have raised ticket prices to offset higher fuel expenses.
Industry analysts say travellers may face additional cancellations and further increases in airfares if the conflict continues and energy markets remain volatile.
Impact of Gulf supply disruptions
The Middle East plays a critical role in supplying aviation fuel to Europe. Roughly half of the region’s jet fuel imports originate in Gulf states, with most shipments passing through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Shipping through the narrow waterway has been severely disrupted after Iran moved to effectively block the route following military strikes by the United States and Israel. The situation has slowed the movement of oil products and contributed to rising global fuel costs.
According to Lufthansa, the planned reductions will save about 40,000 metric tonnes of jet fuel. Much of the decrease will result from shutting down its regional subsidiary, Lufthansa CityLine.
As part of the changes, the airline said it will temporarily suspend flights to several European destinations, including Heringsdorf, Cork, Gdańsk, Ljubljana, Rijeka, Sibiu, Stuttgart, Trondheim, Tivat and Wrocław.
Passengers affected by the cancellations will be offered refunds or rebooked onto alternative services operated by other carriers within the Lufthansa Group where available. These include SWISS International Air Lines, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines and ITA Airways.
The airline said some of the reductions could become permanent as it conducts a broader review of its European network. Further details about potential schedule changes are expected later in April.
Concerns over fuel availability
The flight cuts come amid wider concerns about jet fuel supplies in Europe. The International Energy Agency warned last week that the region could face shortages within weeks if supply disruptions continue.
However, the UK government and several airlines have said they are not currently experiencing direct interruptions in fuel deliveries.
In response to the volatility, the European Union announced plans to establish a monitoring system to track production, imports, exports and stock levels of transport fuels across the bloc.
Officials say the initiative is intended to identify potential supply risks early and reduce the impact of rising prices or shortages on the aviation sector.
Despite the reduction in European flights, Lufthansa said travellers would still be able to connect to its long-haul services through its wider global network, although operations would be run more efficiently in light of higher fuel costs.
The latest measures follow an announcement last week that Lufthansa would accelerate the shutdown of Lufthansa CityLine, retiring 27 aircraft. The airline cited escalating fuel costs and ongoing labour disputes as factors behind the decision.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 April 2026
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US–Iran Blockade Standoff as Pakistan Pushes for Talks

A fragile ceasefire between the United States, Iran and Israel has continued beyond its expected expiry, but tensions remain high as both sides engage in maritime confrontations in the Strait of Hormuz.
The extension of the truce was announced by Donald Trump in a social media post late on Tuesday. Instead of renewed air or missile strikes, the conflict has shifted to what observers describe as a “war of blockades”, with US and Iranian forces intercepting and seizing commercial vessels passing through one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.
The situation in the narrow shipping corridor remains volatile, raising concerns that even a minor incident could escalate into a wider confrontation.

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Pakistan’s Diplomatic Effort
Meanwhile, Islamabad has been waiting for delegations from both countries to arrive for talks aimed at de-escalating the crisis.
Authorities had prepared the city for high-level negotiations earlier this week. Parts of the capital were secured and a hotel earmarked for the discussions remained on standby for the arrival of negotiators.
However, the expected delegations have yet to appear, and the sense of anticipation that had surrounded the preparations has faded in recent days.
Speculation that US officials were preparing to travel to Pakistan — including reports that journalists in Washington had been told to prepare for departure — has subsided. Earlier in the week, large Boeing C-17 Globemaster III military transport aircraft were seen landing at a nearby airbase, prompting further speculation about diplomatic activity.
Despite the uncertainty, Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan’s prime minister, has said the government remains committed to facilitating dialogue. Writing on social media, he said Pakistan would continue its efforts to help secure a negotiated settlement between the two sides.
Uncertain Signals from Washington
President Trump has indicated that a breakthrough could still come soon, telling at least one journalist that an agreement might be reached within days.
However, Tehran has dismissed suggestions that it is delaying negotiations to formulate a unified position.
Iranian officials have instead accused Washington of failing to honour commitments and criticised what they described as inconsistent messages from the White House.
Analysts say the US president’s public statements — which have alternated between threats of severe retaliation and offers of diplomacy — have added to the uncertainty surrounding the negotiations.
Iran has also complained that it has twice entered talks with the United States in the past year only to face subsequent military attacks by Israel and US forces.
Questions Over Iran’s Leadership
The ceasefire announcement itself hinted at further complications. In his message, President Trump described Iran’s leadership as “seriously fractured”.
The comment has fuelled debate among analysts about the current structure of power within Tehran following losses among senior figures during the conflict.
If divisions within Iran’s leadership have deepened, diplomats warn that reaching a negotiated settlement could become significantly more complicated.
For now, Pakistan’s planned talks remain in limbo while tensions at sea continue to test the fragile ceasefire.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 April 2026
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Japan Expands Arms Export Policy Amid Shifting Security Landscape

Japan has relaxed long-standing limits on its arms exports, allowing the sale of lethal weapons to a broader group of partner nations in a move that signals a significant evolution in its post-war defence posture.

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The policy change, announced on Tuesday, removes previous restrictions that confined exports largely to non-combat equipment. Under the revised rules, Japan will be permitted to transfer lethal military hardware to countries with which it maintains defence agreements.
Government officials say the move is intended to strengthen Japan’s security partnerships and contribute to regional stability at a time of growing geopolitical tensions.
Expanded defence exports
For decades, Japanese arms exports were tightly restricted, reflecting the country’s pacifist principles established after the Second World War. Previously, exports were limited to five categories of equipment: rescue, transport, warning, surveillance and minesweeping.
Under the new framework, those limits will be lifted. Japan will now be able to export lethal weapons to 17 partner nations that have defence cooperation arrangements with Tokyo, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
A prohibition on arms sales to countries involved in active conflicts will remain in place. However, the rule does not apply to nations that have formal defence agreements with Japan. Officials have also indicated that exceptions may be considered in what they described as “special circumstances”.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the policy reflected a changing global security environment. Writing on social media, she said no single country could safeguard its peace and security alone amid increasingly complex threats.
She stressed, however, that the policy shift did not represent a departure from Japan’s broader commitment to peace. According to Takaichi, the government would proceed cautiously when deciding whether arms transfers should be approved.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said the policy was aimed at protecting Japan’s security while supporting stability across the region.
Regional reactions
China expressed strong concern about the decision, describing it as a step towards militarisation.
Beijing’s foreign ministry said it was closely monitoring the development and would oppose what it characterised as a reckless shift in Japan’s defence policy.
The announcement coincided with ongoing military exercises involving the United States and the Philippines. Japan’s Self-Defence Forces are participating in the annual drills as combatants for the first time rather than observers.
The exercises are taking place in parts of the Philippines close to disputed waters and islands claimed by China, including areas near Taiwan.
Beijing considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has not ruled out using force to bring the self-governed island under its control.
South Korea also responded cautiously, saying Japan’s defence policy should ideally continue to reflect the principles of its pacifist constitution while supporting peace and stability in the region.
Relations between Seoul and Tokyo remain shaped in part by Japan’s colonial rule over the Korean peninsula between 1910 and the end of the Second World War, a period marked by forced labour and the sexual exploitation of Korean women.
Gradual shift from pacifism
Japan’s pacifist stance was embedded in its 1947 constitution, which renounces war as a means of settling international disputes and states that the country will not maintain military forces with war potential.
While pacifism has long been central to Japan’s national identity, successive governments have gradually eased some restrictions on defence policy.
In 2014, then Prime Minister Shinzo Abe relaxed a blanket ban on arms exports, allowing Japan to collaborate with allies on weapons development and opening limited opportunities for defence sales.
Further reforms in 2023 under Prime Minister Fumio Kishida allowed exports of completed lethal weapons for the first time since the war.
Takaichi has also voiced support for revising the constitution’s pacifist provisions, particularly Article 9, which formally renounces war.
Supporters argue that Japan must adapt to a more challenging security environment shaped by the presence of China, Russia and North Korea. Critics, however, warn that expanding military capabilities could increase the risk of Japan becoming involved in future conflicts.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 22 April 2026
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NATO Fighters Intercept Russian Bombers and Jets Over Baltic Sea

NATO fighter aircraft were scrambled on Monday to intercept Russian military planes flying over the Baltic Sea, as alliance members monitored a formation of bombers and fighter jets operating near NATO airspace.

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The operation involved several NATO and partner nations responding to a Russian flight that included long-range strategic bombers and escort fighters. The interception took place as part of NATO’s routine air-policing mission in northern Europe.
Multinational response from NATO and partners
French Rafale fighter jets stationed in Lithuania were among the aircraft dispatched to monitor the Russian formation. The aircraft were deployed from Šiauliai Air Base, where France is currently participating in NATO’s rotating air-policing mission designed to protect the airspace of Baltic states.
The French fighters were equipped with air-to-air missiles and joined aircraft from Sweden, Finland, Poland, Denmark and Romania in tracking the Russian aircraft.
According to the French detachment involved in the mission, the Russian group consisted of two Tu-22M3 supersonic strategic bombers accompanied by around 10 fighter aircraft. The escort included both Su-30 and Su-35 jets, which rotated duties protecting the bombers during the flight.
The allied aircraft monitored and visually identified the Russian planes while maintaining distance, a standard procedure during such encounters.
Russia says flight was scheduled
Russia’s Defence Ministry said the operation was a planned training flight conducted over neutral waters of the Baltic Sea. In a statement posted on Telegram, the ministry said the mission lasted more than four hours.
“At certain stages of the route, the long-range bombers were accompanied by fighters of foreign states,” the ministry said.
It added that Russian long-range aviation regularly carries out flights over international waters in regions including the Arctic, North Atlantic, Pacific Ocean, Baltic Sea and Black Sea.
The ministry said all flights are conducted in accordance with international rules governing the use of airspace.
NATO monitoring flights near alliance territory
NATO aircraft frequently intercept Russian military flights near the alliance’s borders, particularly in the Baltic region. The alliance says Russian aircraft often operate without activating their transponders, communicating with civilian air-traffic controllers or filing flight plans.
Such measures can pose potential risks for civilian aviation, prompting NATO to dispatch fighters to identify and monitor the aircraft.
The Baltic air-policing mission was established in 2004 after Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia joined NATO. Because the three countries lack their own fighter aircraft capable of carrying out air-defence missions, allied nations take turns deploying jets to patrol their airspace.
Many Russian flights observed by NATO aircraft travel between mainland Russia and the Kaliningrad exclave on the Baltic coast.
Even before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, NATO reported intercepting Russian aircraft roughly 300 times a year, most often over northern European waters.
Activity continues in Baltic region
Lithuania’s defence ministry said NATO aircraft were scrambled four times between April 13 and April 19 to intercept Russian aircraft that were not following standard flight procedures.
Officials said some of the aircraft involved were flying without flight plans and had switched off their transponders.
Monday’s interception was the latest example of continued military activity in the Baltic Sea region, where NATO and Russia frequently track each other’s aircraft operating in international airspace.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 22 April 2026
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Zelensky Criticises US Envoys for Visiting Moscow but Not Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised senior US envoys for travelling repeatedly to Moscow while failing to visit Kyiv, describing the imbalance as “disrespectful”.

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Speaking in an interview with a Ukrainian media outlet, Zelensky said it was inappropriate that US officials had met Russian leaders several times without making a comparable visit to Ukraine.
“It’s disrespectful to come to Moscow and not Kyiv,” Zelensky said. “It’s just disrespectful.”
US envoys’ meetings in Moscow
The criticism was directed at Steve Witkoff, a special envoy for Donald Trump, and Jared Kushner.
The two travelled to the Russian capital late last year during negotiations aimed at reaching a ceasefire in the war between Russia and Ukraine, and returned again in January.
Witkoff, a former real estate executive, has visited Moscow eight times and has held multiple meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
However, neither Witkoff nor Kushner has visited Kyiv in an official capacity.
Zelensky said he understood there could be logistical challenges but suggested alternative arrangements could have been made if necessary.
“I understand we have complex logistics,” he said. “If they don’t want to, we can meet in other countries.”
Focus shifts to Middle East conflict
Earlier in April, Zelensky had said the two US envoys were planning a trip to Ukraine, but the visit never took place as the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran escalated.
Witkoff and Kushner are now part of a US negotiating delegation travelling to Pakistan for talks related to a ceasefire with Iran.
Zelensky acknowledged that Washington’s diplomatic focus had shifted towards the Middle East, but stressed the importance of maintaining cooperation with the United States.
“For us it is important to continue cooperating with the Americans,” he said.
Stalled peace negotiations
Efforts to end the war in Ukraine gathered momentum in autumn 2025 when reports emerged that US and Russian officials had been developing a framework for a possible settlement.
Ukraine later pushed to participate in the talks, leading to several meetings between Kyiv, Moscow and Washington.
By mid-February, both sides said they had reached tentative understandings on some military issues, including the position of the front line and arrangements for monitoring a ceasefire.
Major political questions remain unresolved.
Kyiv has demanded that Russia return Ukrainian children it says were forcibly deported after the invasion began. Moscow has also insisted on political changes in Ukraine’s leadership as part of any agreement.
The status of eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region remains the central sticking point. Russia has demanded sovereignty over territory it occupies, a condition Kyiv has rejected.
War continues along long front line
The conflict began when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and has now lasted more than four years.
Russian forces control large parts of eastern Ukraine, and fighting continues along a long front line stretching from Luhansk in the northeast to Kherson in the south.
Cities across Ukraine remain frequent targets of drone and missile strikes. Ukrainian officials say Russia launched more than 700 drones and missiles in a series of attacks one night last week, killing at least 18 people.
Ukraine has meanwhile expanded long-range drone attacks on Russian infrastructure, targeting ports, energy depots and industrial sites deep inside Russian territory.
According to Reuters calculations, these strikes temporarily disabled around 20% of Russia’s oil export capacity earlier in April.
At the same time, the global energy disruptions linked to the conflict with Iran have boosted Russian oil revenues, even as the country’s broader economy faces continuing strain.
EU loan decision linked to pipeline repairs
The war has also complicated European energy supply.
Although many European Union countries have reduced reliance on Russian oil, Viktor Orbán’s government in Hungary and neighbouring Slovakia have continued imports through the Soviet-era Druzhba pipeline, which runs through Ukrainian territory.
The pipeline was shut earlier this year after Ukraine said a Russian strike had damaged the infrastructure in January.
Orbán subsequently blocked approval of a €90bn EU loan package intended to support Ukraine.
Zelensky said on Tuesday that the pipeline had now been repaired, raising the possibility that Hungary could lift its veto and allow EU member states to approve the financial assistance.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 22 April 2026
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War with US and Israel Drives Mass Job Losses Across Iran

Millions of people in Iran have lost their jobs following the country’s conflict with the United States and Israel, according to government officials, as the war’s economic impact spreads across multiple sectors.

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Deputy Minister for Work and Social Security Gholamhossein Mohammadi said about two million workers had been made redundant since hostilities began. The layoffs have become a widely discussed issue among Iranians online, where officials and employers often describe the cuts as efforts to “balance the workforce”.
Job losses have not been limited to facilities directly damaged by air strikes. Businesses across manufacturing, retail, trade and the digital economy have also been affected as supply chains break down and consumer spending falls.
Economic ripple effects
Air strikes on key industrial facilities have contributed to the disruption. In late March and early April, US and Israeli attacks targeted major petrochemical plants in Asaluyeh and Mahshahr, along with the country’s largest steel producers, Mobarakeh Steel and Khuzestan Steel.
Tens of thousands of workers lost jobs directly at those sites, but the impact has spread far wider. Many companies supplying raw materials or services to those industries have also cut staff.
Iran’s car manufacturing sector, which is estimated to directly or indirectly employ about one million people, has reported layoffs across its supply chain.
Businesses are also struggling with disrupted imports. A manufacturing executive in the central province of Qom said production had halted due to shortages of raw materials.
“We hoped that when the war stopped, things would return to normal,” the executive said. “But foreign suppliers are worried their ships may not be allowed to enter Iranian waters.”
Some factories have been forced to suspend operations as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz complicate shipping and logistics.
Falling demand and social media accounts
Reduced consumer spending has added further pressure on businesses. Many households have cut back on non-essential purchases, weakening demand in sectors such as tourism, restaurants and retail outside basic groceries.
Iranians have pointed to visible signs of the slowdown in social media posts. Some users have described unusually quiet roads and faster commutes in Tehran, suggesting fewer people are travelling to work.
Reports have also emerged of companies making large-scale layoffs. One social media user said a textile firm employing their relative had dismissed 600 of its 650 staff after losing access to imported raw materials.
Some employers have said they may rehire workers once conditions improve, while others have placed staff on unpaid leave.
Internet blackout and digital sector hit
The government’s decision to impose a nationwide internet blackout during the conflict has further damaged economic activity, particularly in the technology sector.
Officials say the shutdown was introduced for security reasons to prevent surveillance, espionage and cyberattacks. Iran previously imposed a similar blackout during a crackdown on protests earlier in the year.
Before the conflict, Information and Communication Technology Minister Sattar Hashemi estimated that each day without internet access cost the economy at least 50 trillion rials, roughly $35 million.
With the shutdown lasting 52 days so far, the total economic impact from the disruption alone is estimated to exceed $1.8bn.
Women have been particularly affected. Official data shows only one in nine working-age women in Iran were employed before the war, and many relied on platforms such as Instagram to sell goods and communicate with customers.
Even news organisations have cut staff. The Iran Labour News Agency recently dismissed its journalists and asked them to continue working as freelancers.
Inflation pressures rising
The government has announced a loan programme intended to support small businesses, offering about 440 million rials per employee. The loans must be repaid within six months and carry interest rates ranging from 18% to 35%, depending on the number of redundancies made.
The surge in unemployment comes as inflation in Iran has already surpassed 50% as of March 2026.
Economists warn that if fighting resumes or sanctions remain in place, economic conditions could deteriorate further, with rising prices and job losses placing increasing strain on households across the country.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 22 April 2026
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