Foreign
Trump Signals Optimism Amidst Trade Tensions with China.
The White House indicated Friday that President Trump remains optimistic regarding a potential trade agreement with China, despite escalating trade hostilities between the two nations.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, “The president has made it very clear he’s open to a deal with China,” during a press briefing. This statement comes as recent tariff escalations from both sides have unsettled global markets.
While acknowledging the administration’s commitment to addressing trade imbalances with China, Leavitt cautioned against retaliatory measures. Recent weeks have seen significant tariff increases, including a 125% tariff on Chinese goods, a 20% “fentanyl tariff,” and retaliatory measures from China raising tariffs on US imports to 125%.
The administration maintains that taking action on trade with China has bipartisan support and remains a key priority. Despite the current tensions, the White House maintains a position of openness towards a negotiated resolution.
In response to the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, the United Kingdom is deploying fighter jets and other military assets to the Middle East. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the deployment, stating it is for “contingency support.”
The Prime Minister has engaged in discussions with both US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing the need for de-escalation. Foreign Secretary David Lammy has also communicated with Iranian officials, urging restraint and emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians.
The UK’s actions reflect a commitment to regional stability and a concerted effort to prevent further escalation of the conflict. Ongoing discussions with allies aim to de-escalate the situation and promote a peaceful resolution.
Foreign
A person who attacked and killed a Nigerian schoolboy with a sword in the UK has been sentenced to life in prison.
Marcus Monzo, a 37-year-old of Spanish-Brazilian descent, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years for the murder of 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin in Hainault, northeast London. The sentencing follows Monzo’s conviction for the unprovoked and brutal attack on Daniel, as well as attacks on other members of the public and police officers, in April of last year.
The court heard how Monzo, under the influence of cannabis-induced psychosis, initiated a violent rampage, culminating in the near-decapitation of Daniel Anjorin as the young boy walked to school. Judge Joel Bennathan strongly condemned Monzo’s actions, acknowledging the profound grief inflicted upon Daniel’s family.
Judge Bennathan also commended the bravery of the police officers involved, highlighting their courage in confronting and disarming Monzo, thereby protecting the public. Monzo’s sentence reflects the severity of his crimes and the devastating impact on the victims and the community.
Niger has announced plans to nationalize the Somair uranium mine, currently operated by French nuclear firm Orano. This decision marks a further departure from France, Niger’s former colonial power, and a potential realignment with Russia. The military government, in power since a 2023 coup, accuses Orano of unfairly benefiting from the mine’s output since its launch in 1971. Orano, which holds a 63% stake in Somair, disputes the allegations and has threatened legal action, citing a “systematic policy of stripping mining assets.” This move follows Niger’s earlier removal of Orano’s operational control over key mines in the country. The nationalization reflects a broader trend in West Africa, with Mali and Burkina Faso also pursuing similar policies under military rule. The situation is further complicated by existing arbitration processes between Orano and Niger, including a recent lawsuit filed by Orano.
Kwara State Police Apprehend Suspected Armed Robbers Targeting KWASU Students.
Tragedy Strikes as 12-Year-Old Killed in Edo Kidnapping Rescue Operation.
