Trump’s 10% tariffs takes effect amid trade confusion
Fresh tariffs ordered by US President Donald Trump have come into force at a lower rate than he had publicly pledged, adding to uncertainty over American trade policy. From Tuesday, a 10 percent tariff is being applied to most imported goods not covered by exemptions, according to US Customs and Border Protection. The rate contrasts with Trump’s weekend promise to raise the levy to 15 percent, and no directive has been issued to implement the higher figure. The move follows a recent Supreme Court rebuke of earlier tariff measures, deepening questions over the administration’s trade direction.
France seeks to restrict US Envoy after diplomatic row
Tensions have escalated between France and the United States after French officials moved to block US envoy Charles Kushner from direct access to government ministers. The dispute began when the US embassy in Paris posted comments suggesting violent left-wing extremism was on the rise following the murder of a far-right nationalist student in Lyon. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot summoned Kushner, but he did not attend and instead sent a deputy. Paris accused him of failing to meet the basic expectations of his diplomatic role.
Tiger illness kills 72 at Thai tourist park
Authorities in northern Thailand are investigating the deaths of 72 tigers at Tiger Kingdom Chiang Mai. The animals died within less than two weeks across two facilities. Tests detected canine distemper virus and respiratory-related bacterial infections. Officials say the outbreak is no longer spreading and no human infections have been reported. Investigations continue into the possible source, including contaminated food.
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Iran warns students over ‘Red Lines’ amid campus unrest
Iran’s government has warned student protesters to respect national “red lines” as clashes continued at universities for a fourth day. Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani acknowledged student anger following deadly protests in January but stressed that sacred symbols, including the national flag, must not be targeted. Several universities remain closed, with classes moved online as authorities seek to contain unrest.
South Africans return after alleged war deception
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for assisting in the return of 17 South African men who said they were misled into joining the war in Ukraine. The men claimed they travelled to Russia for bodyguard training but were instead sent to the front line. Four have returned home, eleven are expected soon, and two remain in Russia.
M23 rebel spokesperson killed in Congo drone strike
The military spokesperson for the M23 rebel group, Willy Ngoma, has been killed in a Congolese army drone strike near the strategic mining town of Rubaya in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The area, a key coltan hub, has seen sustained fighting and drone attacks in recent days, forcing hundreds of families to flee.
Uganda arrests two women under anti-homosexuality law
Ugandan police have arrested two young women accused of engaging in same-sex acts after they were allegedly seen kissing in public. The arrests were made under the country’s 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act, which carries severe penalties, including life imprisonment in certain cases.
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Fire disrupts flights at Cape Town Airport
A fire at Cape Town International Airport temporarily disrupted domestic and international flights. Authorities confirmed the blaze has been extinguished and no injuries were reported, but network and IT systems were affected, causing delays and diversions at one of South Africa’s busiest airports.
