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EU Strikes Back: Countermeasures Proposed in response to U.S. Tariffs

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The European Union has drawn a firm line in response to recent U.S. tariffs, with the European Commission proposing countermeasures that could affect up to €95 billion worth of American goods. This significant step isn’t a reaction driven by hostility but rather a strategic decision aimed at defending the economic interests of EU member states. While the move signals a serious stance, EU officials have reiterated that their preference remains open dialogue and cooperation over confrontation.

At the heart of the issue lies the broader concern for fairness and the protection of European jobs and industries. The tariffs imposed by the United States have sparked frustration among local businesses across the EU, many of which are already navigating economic challenges. European leaders emphasize that while they hope to avoid further escalation, they cannot disregard the tangible effects these trade policies have on livelihoods and regional economies.

Despite the tensions, there is still hope for resolution through diplomatic channels. EU officials remain committed to acting responsibly and in the best interest of their citizens. “We’d rather talk things through,” one representative stated, reflecting a sentiment shared across much of Europe. Nonetheless, the EU’s readiness to take firm and fair action underscores its resolve to defend its values and economic stability.

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Cardinal Robert Prevost Makes History as the First American Pope, Bringing a Gentle and Compassionate Leadership Style

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In a moment that captured the world’s attention, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a soft-spoken man from Chicago known for his gentle smile and steady presence, was elected as the first American pope. For many, his election feels like a breath of fresh air. Affectionately known as “Bishop Bob” by some of his colleagues, he has long been admired not for grand gestures but for his quiet commitment to showing up—listening deeply, walking alongside others, and leading by example.

Pope Robert is not a leader who seeks the spotlight. Instead, he’s the kind who remembers your name, asks about your family, and actually listens to the answer. Those who have worked with him speak of his quiet warmth and steady presence, noting how he makes others feel truly seen. His leadership is rooted in simple acts of kindness and understanding, rather than grand proclamations. This approach fosters a sense of connection and humanity, emphasizing that faith should be lived through small, everyday acts of love.

As Pope Robert steps into this enormous role, there is a sense of hope that his humble, human approach is precisely what the Church—and the world—needs right now. His election is seen as more than just a change in leadership; it’s seen as a sign of the Church opening its arms a little wider, offering a more personal, compassionate form of leadership in a time when it is needed most.

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EU Unveils Roadmap to End Reliance on Russian Energy by 2027

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The European Commission has released a comprehensive roadmap detailing plans to end the European Union’s dependence on Russian energy by the end of 2027. The proposed measures include a full ban on imports of Russian gas and liquefied natural gas, as well as strategies for phasing out Russian oil and nuclear fuel. European Commissioner for Energy Dan Jorgensen emphasized that the move aims to prevent Russia from “weaponising energy” and funding its war efforts through European payments.

In a press conference held in Strasbourg, Jorgensen said EU member states will be required to submit national strategies to eliminate Russian energy imports, including uranium and other nuclear materials. The European Commission proposes enhancing energy efficiency, accelerating renewable energy adoption, and diversifying supply sources as key steps. Despite notable progress—such as reducing gas imports from 45% in 2021 to 19% in 2024—the EU still relies on Russia for a significant share of uranium.

The roadmap also highlights measures to combat Russia’s use of “shadow fleets” that obscure oil exports and evade sanctions. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov criticized the EU’s plans, claiming Europe was “shooting itself in the foot.” However, the Commission insists the phase-out will be “stepwise and gradual” to limit economic disruption while ensuring long-term energy and economic security for the bloc.

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Reform UK Secures Historic By-Election Win by Just Six Votes in Runcorn and Helsby

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In a dramatic political upset, Reform UK has won the Runcorn and Helsby by-election by a razor-thin margin of just six votes, marking the party’s first ever parliamentary by-election victory. Former Conservative councillor Sarah Pochin overturned Labour’s significant 14,696 majority following a recount, which confirmed her narrow win over Labour’s candidate. The by-election was called after former Labour MP Mike Amesbury resigned following his conviction for assaulting a constituent.

This result is a major blow to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in his first electoral test since assuming office, despite Labour holding on in key mayoral races across the country. Reform UK, originally the Brexit Party, now holds five seats in Parliament. Nigel Farage celebrated the win, declaring Reform the true opposition to the Labour government and stating, “If you vote Reform, you get Reform.” Labour acknowledged the challenging circumstances of the by-election but highlighted the collapse of the Conservative vote, which dropped to just 2,341.

Reform UK continues to gain momentum, coming second in several mayoral contests and making inroads in council elections. Deputy leader Richard Tice expressed confidence in further wins, particularly in Greater Lincolnshire, while the party is also targeting traditionally Conservative strongholds like Kent and Lincolnshire, and Labour-held areas such as Doncaster. Nationally, Reform has seen a steady rise in support, placing third behind Labour and the Conservatives in last year’s general election.

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Putin Declares Short Ceasefire for Victory Day, Ukraine Demands Longer Truce

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire from May 8 to 10 to mark Victory Day, commemorating the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. The Kremlin said the move was made on “humanitarian grounds,” urging Ukraine to follow suit. However, Kyiv dismissed the offer as symbolic, pushing instead for an immediate and comprehensive 30-day truce proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Ukrainian officials, including Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, expressed skepticism over Russia’s intentions, citing past violations of temporary ceasefires. Ukraine maintains that any real step toward peace must include a complete halt to hostilities, with no conditions or delays. Meanwhile, the U.S. is mediating talks, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling the coming days “very critical” for determining continued American involvement.

As both sides continue long-range strikes despite peace talk efforts, the conflict remains deadlocked. Russia has dismissed the U.S.-backed 30-day ceasefire plan due to its demands, while Ukraine refuses to concede territory for peace. International players, including France and China, are engaged in discussions to align terms for a durable ceasefire, though trust and consensus remain elusive.

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“Grandpa Robbers” Face Trial Nearly Nine Years After Kim Kardashian Paris Heist

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The trial of ten people connected to the infamous 2016 Paris robbery of American reality star Kim Kardashian has begun, nearly nine years after the shocking event. Among them, five men are accused of carrying out the heist, while others are charged as accessories. Known as the “grandpa robbers” due to their age, the gang members — some born in the 1950s — allegedly tied up Kardashian at gunpoint in her luxury suite, stealing $10 million worth of jewellery, including a $4 million engagement ring gifted by Kanye West.

The heist, which took place during Paris Fashion Week, was marked by serious errors on both sides. While Kardashian’s social media posts reportedly made her an easier target, the burglars’ amateur mistakes, including leaving DNA traces and being caught on extensive CCTV surveillance, quickly led to their capture. Yunice Abbas, one of the confessed robbers, later admitted in his memoir that the gang underestimated modern police techniques, and investigators tracked them down within months.

The trial will also delve into how the gang obtained insider information about Kardashian’s whereabouts, with one transportation employee, Gary Madar, accused but denying involvement. Many stolen jewels were believed to have been melted down or sold, but Kardashian’s iconic engagement ring was never recovered. Kardashian, who described the traumatic night as life-altering, is expected to take the stand in mid-May, drawing significant media attention once again.

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Germany Considers EU Borrowing Exemption to Boost Defence Spending

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Germany is likely to request an exemption from the European Union’s borrowing limits to ramp up defence spending without violating fiscal rules, German Finance Minister Joerg Kukies said on Friday. Speaking on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank meetings in Washington, Kukies noted that the final decision is yet to be made and is under discussion within the German government in coordination with the incoming coalition partners. The move aligns with a European Commission proposal allowing member states to increase defence spending by up to 1.5% of GDP annually over four years, despite potential budget deficits.

Several countries, including Portugal and Poland, are expected to pursue similar exemptions as the EU aims to strengthen its collective defence capabilities by investing €650 billion over the next four years. Germany’s parliament recently approved a sweeping €500 billion fiscal package, including a special fund for infrastructure and measures to exempt defence spending from domestic borrowing caps. Kukies emphasized that Germany supports common European financing for military efforts but insists it must focus on genuine joint defence projects.

With Germany being the only G7 nation to see economic stagnation over the past two years, Kukies stressed the urgency of avoiding further recession. He highlighted the importance of reaching a trade agreement with the U.S. to prevent harmful tariffs, which could significantly affect both German and American economies. The new coalition government in Berlin is also prioritizing economic and tax reforms to revive growth, with the Social Democrats set to retain the finance ministry under the agreement reached after the February 23 election.

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Ajit Ravi Concludes 100 Life Challenge: A Mission of 100 Months of Giving

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After 100 consecutive months of sustained giving, Ajit Ravi has completed the “100 Life Challenge” — a commitment that saw him donate 80% of his 8-hour salary every month to support a wide range of charitable initiatives. The effort began in 2015 while he was working at Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), starting with financial aid for heart surgeries and eventually growing to include support for education, essential supplies, and other life-critical needs.

His unwavering consistency even through financial challenges and professional hurdles — including a period where he didn’t receive any salary — sets an inspiring example. Instead of stepping back, Ajit matched the intended donation with funds from elsewhere, ensuring not a single month went by without giving.

Ajit’s initiative was shaped by the concept of “Individual Social Responsibility (ISR),” which he developed to advocate for personal accountability in social change. “I hoped this would spark a movement,” he reflected, “but no one has followed through yet — and that’s disheartening.” Ajit’s journey reminds us all that one person’s steady commitment can create a ripple effect of change — and that doing good, no matter how quietly or consistently, is always worth celebrating.

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Attempt to Arrest Serb Leader Milorad Dodik Thwarted by Armed Police Forces

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Bosnia’s state police force, SIPA, attempted to arrest Milorad Dodik, the president of the Serb-dominated Republika Srpska, on Wednesday in East Sarajevo, but were blocked by heavily armed regional police loyal to Dodik. The arrest was ordered by the state court after Dodik and two of his close allies failed to respond to summonses linked to their separatist legislation, which had been suspended by Bosnia’s constitutional court.

Despite an active arrest warrant, Dodik has continued his public engagements across Republika Srpska under heavy protection. SIPA spokeswoman Jelena Miovcic confirmed that their officers were warned by Serb Republic police that any attempt to detain Dodik would be met with force. This ongoing defiance has heightened political tensions and exposed a growing rift between Bosnia’s central institutions and the Serb region’s leadership.

Dodik, who was previously sentenced to a year in prison and banned from politics for six years, remains at the center of Bosnia’s most serious political crisis since the 1990s war. His actions, backed by Russia and Serbia, have drawn condemnation and sanctions from the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Austria. Interpol recently declined a red notice request for his arrest, highlighting the international divisions over the escalating situation.

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UK Pay Growth Holds Steady at 3% Amid Economic Shifts

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British employers maintained pay increases at 3% during the three months to March, marking the fourth consecutive rolling quarter at this rate, according to new data from human resources analytics firm Brightmine. This figure also represents the joint-lowest rate of increase since December 2021, offering a potential sign of easing wage inflation—something likely to be welcomed by the Bank of England (BoE) as it weighs future interest rate cuts.

Despite significant policy changes taking effect in April—including a rise in national insurance contributions and a near 7% hike in the national minimum wage—there has been no immediate shift in employer wage strategies. “Currently the data isn’t showing any signs of a knee-jerk reaction to recent national insurance changes,” noted Sheila Attwood, Brightmine’s senior content manager. However, she added that many employers are adopting a “watch and wait” approach, suggesting potential adjustments may emerge later in the year.

The BoE is closely monitoring wage trends as it assesses the extent to which inflationary pressures in the labor market are subsiding. A clearer picture is expected in the second half of 2025, which could influence the central bank’s anticipated interest rate decision on May 8. Brightmine’s analysis covered 125 pay settlements impacting approximately 192,000 employees, revealing a shift toward more modest pay deals, particularly at the lower end of the pay spectrum.

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