Cuba began releasing some prisoners, including those arrested during the 2021 protests, as part of talks with the Vatican. The move comes a day after President Joe Biden's administration announced its intention to lift Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism. The Cuban foreign ministry plans to gradually release 553 convicts in alignment with the Vatican's 2025 Jubilee declaration.
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Latvia's Prime Minister, Evika Siliņa, has sought assistance from Sweden and other Nato allies to investigate damage to an underwater data cable linking Latvia to Sweden. The damage is believed to be externally influenced, prompting intensive collaboration and a criminal investigation, while alternate data routes continue to operate.
The White House's revamped Covid-19 website now prominently features the lab-leak theory, alleging the virus originated from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. The site criticizes a study discrediting the theory and accuses Dr. Fauci of promoting a natural origin narrative. It also questions public health measures and accuses the Biden administration of obstructing investigations into the lab-leak theory.
One person was killed and several others injured when security personnel thwarted an attack on a Bangladesh Air Force base in Cox's Bazar. The attack was launched by locals after a man was detained for not having documents for his motorcycle. Air Force personnel fired blank shots to protect the base, denying allegations of firing live bullets.
Donald Trump plans to use the recent Gaza ceasefire, which ended 15 months of conflict and involved a phased hostage release deal, to expand the Abraham Accords. The ceasefire arrangement follows significant casualties and destruction in Gaza. Trump emphasized continued cooperation to prevent Gaza from becoming a terrorist safe haven and aims to normalize Israel's relations with more Arab nations.
Elon Musk's popularity has been decreasing since he took over the Department of Government Efficiency. A Wall Street Journal poll shows half of the respondents view his advisory role under Trump unfavorably. Despite this, his influence within the MAGA circle is increasing, with new responsibilities as the sole chief of the Department of Government Efficiency and White House access.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a video meeting to deepen their nations' ties amidst Western sanctions on Moscow. Xi emphasised enhancing 'good-neighborly friendship' and strategic cooperation. The alignment, especially strong since the Ukraine conflict, also targets Western dominance. Putin signaled hope for lasting peace in Ukraine under the new US administration.
Swedish police have made 50 arrests amid a surge in violence, including over 30 bombings since the start of the year. The violence, often linked to gang rivalries and extortion, has escalated, with young teens being used as contract killers. Despite arrests, the violence persists, and authorities are struggling to contain it. Justice minister Gunnar Strommer called an emergency meeting, while prime minister Ulf Kristersson labeled the violence "domestic terrorism."
Brazilian President Lula da Silva, 79, was discharged from a Sao Paulo hospital Sunday after undergoing two brain surgeries. The procedures relieved pressure from a head injury sustained in October. Doctors report his recovery exceeded expectations, restricting him only from strenuous activity. Lula expressed relief and a return to work after experiencing concerning symptoms.
Mississippi native Andrew Eaves has been identified as one of the pilots in the tragic Blackhawk helicopter crash, which collided with an American Airlines plane, resulting in no survivors. Speculation about a transgender pilot led to online attacks against Jo Ellis, who clarified she was not involved in the crash.
Michelle Obama is launching a new weekly podcast called “IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson.†The podcast features guests from various fields discussing essential life and relationship topics. The first episodes will premiere on March 12, with guests such as Issa Rae and discussions on family and personal experiences. The podcast avoids political discussions.