May Current Events 2024: World News
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The world is a very busy place, and it’s hard to stay on top of everything. Infoplease has got you covered. Here are the World news events you need to know so far for May 2024.
- BBC Africa And Voice Of America Radio Suspended By Burkina Faso
- New Law In Iraq Criminalizes Same-Sex Relationship
- 20 Soldiers Died After Ammunition Explosion At A Military Base In Cambodia
- Several People Dead In Kenya After Dam Bursts
- Russia Launches Missile On Ukraine Killing Five People
- Boy Killed In A Sword Attack In North-East London
- Puppy Yoga Classes Banned By Italy Amid Welfare Concerns
- Ten Thousand Indonesian Residents To Be Relocated Permanently Due To Volcanic Eruptions
- Hamas Launches An Attack, Killing Three Israeli Soldiers
- Russia Begins Nuclear Drills Following Threats From West
- Three People Dead And Several People Trapped Under A Collapsed Building In South Africa
- Russia Launches Series Of Airstrike On Ukraine
- United Nations General Assembly Urges The Admission Of Palestine As Member
- Large Crowd Protest Georgia’s Foreign Agent Bill
- Sergei Shoigu Removed From Russian Defence Ministry
- United States Secretary Of States Reassures Ukraine’s President During Visit To The Country
- Two Guards Killed As Gunmen Attack French Prison Van
- Prime Minister Of Slovakia Battles For His Life After Assassination Attempt
- Gaza Receives First Aid Trucks, Confirmed By The United States
- Israel Hits 70 Targets In Gaza, Killing An Islamic Jihadist Leader
- Manchester City Wins Premier League Title Ahead Of Arsenal
- Helicopter Crash In Iran Led To The Death Of The President And Foreign Minister
- Aid Distribution For Rafah Has Been Suspended By United Nations
- United Kingdom General Election Set For July 4, Confirmed By The Prime Minister
- Israel Ordered By ICJ To Halt Rafah Offensive Immediately
- Armed Men Raid A Village In Nigeria Abducting Over 160 Villagers
- Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak Proposes National Service At 18
- Military Rule In Burkina Faso Has Been Extended For Five Years
- Parliament In Columbia Approves Bill To Ban Bullfighting In The Country
- Person Confirmed Dead After Being Sucked By Jet Engine
BBC Africa And Voice Of America Radio Suspended By Burkina Faso
Friday, April 26, 2024 – Burkina Faso has suspended BBC Africa and Voice of America for two weeks due to their coverage of a Human Rights Watch (HRW) report alleging the military's involvement in extrajudicial killings. According to the report, HRW's investigation found that the army executed 223 villagers, including 56 children, accusing them of collaborating with jihadists.
The government labeled HRW's report as biased and suspended the broadcasters for potentially inciting public disorder. Authorities have also ordered Internet providers to block access to the BBC, VOA, and HRW websites. Both BBC and VOA defended their reporting, emphasizing their commitment to impartial news.
The United Nations Human Rights Office expressed concern over civilian killings and media censorship in the context of escalating violence in Burkina Faso and other Sahel nations battling Islamist insurgencies since 2012.
Source: Reuters
New Law In Iraq Criminalizes Same-Sex Relationship
Saturday, April 27, 2024 – Iraq's parliament has approved a bill imposing harsh penalties, including 10 to 15 years in jail, for same-sex relationships, with transgender individuals facing 1 to 3 years behind bars. Proponents claim it reinforces religious values, while critics argue it exacerbates Iraq's history of LGBT rights violations.
The law also targets those promoting homosexuality, doctors performing gender reassignment surgery, men exhibiting feminine traits, and participants in "wife swapping." Originally proposing capital punishment, the bill was amended due to international pressure. Lawmakers delayed its passage until the Prime Minister visited the United States to avoid controversy.
LGBT individuals in Iraq face abduction, torture, and murder, and rainbow flags have been burned at protests. The United States and the United Kingdom condemned the law as a threat to human rights and economic growth, urging Iraq to uphold freedoms for all.
Source: BBC
20 Soldiers Died After Ammunition Explosion At A Military Base In Cambodia
20 Soldiers Died After Ammunition Explosion At A Military Base In Cambodia
Sunday, April 28, 2024 – An explosion at a military base in south-western Cambodia has resulted in the death of 20 soldiers and multiple injuries. Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed shock over the incident, and its cause remains unclear.
Images from the scene depict severe damage to buildings and injured soldiers receiving treatment. The blast destroyed four buildings and damaged military vehicles, with 25 villagers' homes also affected. The region has been experiencing a heatwave, which may have affected the stability of explosives.
Witnesses reported a major explosion followed by smaller blasts. Hun Manet extended condolences to the soldiers' families, promising government support for funerals and compensation. Hun Manet, a graduate of the United States military at West Point, succeeded his father as prime minister last year, who led Cambodia for 38 years before he stepped down.
Source: The Guardian
Several People Dead In Kenya After Dam Bursts
Monday, April 29, 2024 – A makeshift dam burst near a town in Kenya's Rift Valley, which resulted in over 45 deaths during the rainy season. The total toll exceeds 100 due to heavy rains, worsened by the El Niño weather pattern. Government spokesperson, Isaac Mwaura, confirmed 103 fatalities, with the Rift Valley most affected.
Over 185,000 people were displaced, and rescue efforts are ongoing. Witnesses described the deluge as earthquake-like, destroying homes and blocking roads. 45 bodies have been recovered, with 110 injured. Rescue teams are tirelessly searching for survivors.
The disaster occurred at Old Kijabe Dam, which formed naturally over decades. The government has ordered inspections of all dams for safety. The Red Cross is aiding in the search for missing persons. The interior minister said that the government has directed all intelligence officials to inspect all public and private dams and water reservoirs within 24 hours.
Source: The Guardian
Russia Launches Missile On Ukraine Killing Five People
Tuesday, April 30, 2024 – Authorities in Ukraine have confirmed that a Russian missile attack on Odesa, the country’s Black Sea port city, left at least five dead and over 30 injured. Dramatic footage shows explosions near the seafront, damaging an educational institution nicknamed "Harry Potter castle." Ukraine suspects Russia used Iskander missiles and cluster munitions, causing extensive damage and casualties.
Metal fragments and debris were found up to 1.5 km away from the site of the attack. Among the injured were two children and a pregnant woman. Despite the Convention on Cluster Munitions prohibiting their use, neither side nor the United States, has signed.
Russia claims intercepting a missile and drone attack on Crimea, closing the vital bridge to Russia temporarily. The attack allegedly used US-supplied systems, but Ukraine hasn't confirmed, and little evidence is available.
Source: CNN
Boy Killed In A Sword Attack In North-East London
Tuesday, April 30, 2024 – A 14-year-old boy died in a sword rampage in north-east London. Police responded to a car crashing into a house and stabbing reports in Hainault. The suspect, leaping over fences, injured four people, including two officers, before being cornered and Tasered.
The 36-year-old suspect, arrested after crashing, was hospitalized and being treated for the injuries sustained when his vehicle crashed. No prior police contact was found. Social media footage shows the attacker with a knife. Officers are investigating, with no ongoing public threat. The officers' stab wounds require surgery but are not life-threatening. Other victims' injuries are also non-life threatening.
Not deemed terror-related or targeted, the attack remains under scrutiny. Witnesses described chaotic scenes, including a neighbor fleeing and a boy struck by the attacker. The attacker is yet to be interviewed by the police.
Source: BBC
Puppy Yoga Classes Banned By Italy Amid Welfare Concerns
Friday, May 3, 2024 – Italy's Ministry of Health has prohibited "puppy yoga," citing concerns of potential exploitation and mistreatment of the animals involved. Typically, these sessions integrate puppies into yoga classes, allowing them to roam freely or be incorporated into poses. Giovanni Leonardi, from Italy’s health ministry, invoked the Animal Assisted Interventions Act, restricting the use of only adult dogs in such sessions to safeguard both animal welfare and user safety.
This decision follows a March investigation by "Striscia la Notizia," alleging mistreatment of puppies in yoga centers, including confinement in pens and lack of essential care. The National League for the Defence of Dogs filed a complaint, emphasizing the inappropriate treatment of young puppies used in these sessions.
The ministry's ruling has no avenue for appeal, likening the use of puppies in yoga to using puppies as service animals.
Source: CNN
Ten Thousand Indonesian Residents To Be Relocated Permanently Due To Volcanic Eruptions
Saturday, May 4, 2024 – The government of Indonesia plans to relocate nearly 10,000 residents permanently from Ruang Island in North Sulawesi due to ongoing volcanic eruptions from Mount Ruang. With the mountain emitting incandescent lava and ash columns, all residents have been evacuated, and the volcano's alert status has been raised to the highest level.
The closure of the provincial airport in Manado and warnings of a potential tsunami accompany the heightened volcanic activity. To facilitate relocations, the government intends to construct "simple but permanent" homes in the Bolaang Mongondow area, adhering to disaster standards, about 200 km away. Mount Ruang's eruptions, triggered by increased seismic activity, have damaged homes and prompted evacuations from nearby islands.
As volcanic ash continues to pose risks, the Sam Ratulangi Airport remains closed. Indonesia's location on the Pacific Ring of Fire accentuates its vulnerability to seismic events.
Source: CNN
Hamas Launches An Attack, Killing Three Israeli Soldiers
Sunday, May 5, 2024 – Three Israeli soldiers were killed in a Hamas rocket attack very close to the Kerem Shalom crossing in Gaza, prompting Israel to close the crossing. Israeli strikes in Rafah followed, reportedly killing at least 12 people. Talks for a ceasefire and hostage release have stalled.
Hamas denied using civilians as shields. The Israeli military confirmed that they launched a counter-strike in Rafah, confirming that it struck the launcher from which the projectiles were fired and a military structure that was nearby.
Both sides reject key demands, but discussions are set to continue. Israel opposes a permanent ceasefire, fearing Hamas's resurgence. The conflict began after Hamas incursions into Israel. Israeli offensive in Gaza led to civilian casualties. Israel aims to take control of Rafah, but international concerns over civilian safety persist.
Source: BBC
Russia Begins Nuclear Drills Following Threats From West
Monday, May 6, 2024 – Russia has initiated missile drills near Ukraine, simulating the use of tactical nuclear weapons, citing "threats" from Western officials. A spokesman for the Kremlin, Dmitry Peskov, condemned recent statements by French President, Emmanuel Macron and British Foreign Secretary, David Cameron as escalating tension.
Macron didn't rule out deploying French troops to Ukraine upon request, while Cameron suggested Ukraine could use British weapons on Russian territory. Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Britain of being a party to the conflict and in response, they warned of targeting British military facilities in Ukraine.
The drills, which were ordered by President Vladimir Putin, involve missile formations, air, and naval forces. This saber-rattling coincides with Putin's fifth presidential term inauguration and Ukraine's refusal to recognize him as legitimate. NATO and European leaders criticize Russia's actions, urging de-escalation.
Source: BBC
Three People Dead And Several People Trapped Under A Collapsed Building In South Africa
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 – Authorities have confirmed that rescue operations are underway in George, South Africa, after a multi-story building under construction collapsed, resulting in three fatalities and dozens trapped. Twenty-four individuals have been rescued and hospitalized, while 51 remain trapped, as confirmed by the municipality.
Seventy-five construction crew members were on-site during the incident. CCTV footage captured the moment of collapse, depicting a cloud of dust. Theresa Jeyi, a local councilor, described witnessing the collapse and expressed sadness. Rescue teams, including police and sniffer dogs, are on-site.
Mayor Leon van Wyk stated that rescuers are attempting to locate voices heard amid the rubble, and rescue equipment is on the way. The mayor also confirmed that the rescue operation is going to be a lengthy one and is expected to continue throughout the night.
Source: CNN
Russia Launches Series Of Airstrike On Ukraine
Wednesday, May 8, 2024 – Overnight into Wednesday, Russia launched a "massive" missile attack on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, using 76 air attack weapons, including missiles and drones. Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, Mykola Oleshchuk, reported 59 weapons destroyed.
Targets included power facilities in Poltava, Kirovohrad, Zaporizhzhia, Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Vinnytsia regions, aiming to disrupt electricity generation and transmission. Three people were injured. Moscow's intensified efforts to cripple Ukraine's energy system coincide with the United States Congress's delayed approval of $61 billion in military aid. Russian forces exploit Ukraine's "artillery drought" to advance near Avdiivka, anticipating a major offensive.
This marks the fifth attack on DTEK-run power plants in a month and a half, with Ukrenergo reporting damage. President Zelensky condemned the attacks, urging global recognition of Russian aggression, coinciding with Ukraine's Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism.
Source: CNN
United Nations General Assembly Urges The Admission Of Palestine As Member
Friday, May 10, 2024 – The General Assembly of the United Nations has passed a resolution to enhance Palestine's rights within the organization, pushing for its acceptance as a member despite opposition from Israel. Palestine has held non-member observer state status since 2012, but full membership requires approval from the UN Security Council.
The President of Palestine, Mahmoud Abbas, welcomed the resolution, affirming efforts for full United Nations membership. Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan criticized the decision, accusing the United Nations of admitting a "terror state."
The resolution received 143 votes in favor, with 9 against, including the United States and Israel. European countries like Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and Malta reportedly plan to recognize a Palestinian state. However, the resolution does not grant Palestine voting rights, which would require Security Council approval. The issue of Palestinian statehood remains contentious, with the international community divided on the matter.
Source: BBC
Large Crowd Protest Georgia’s Foreign Agent Bill
Saturday, May 11, 2024 – Close to 50,000 demonstrators marched peacefully through heavy rain in Georgia's capital, protesting a proposed "foreign agents" bill. The bill would mandate organizations receiving over 20% of their funding from abroad to register as "agents of foreign influence."
The United States has warned Georgia to choose between the bill and its Euro-Atlantic aspirations, labeling the legislation as "Kremlin-style" and expressing concern over democratic regression. The protest, marked by Georgian, European Union, and Ukrainian flags, featured a diverse crowd including older participants alongside the youth.
Protesters demanded the withdrawal of the bill, emphasizing their desire for Georgia to align with European values and aspirations. Participants stressed the importance of safeguarding freedom of speech and securing a future independent from Russian influence, expressing a strong commitment to European integration.
Source: CNN
Sergei Shoigu Removed From Russian Defence Ministry
Sunday, May 12, 2024 – Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to replace long-serving Defence Minister, Sergei Shoigu, with Deputy Prime Minister, Andrei Belousov, an economist with limited military experience. Shoigu, who has held the position since 2012, will be appointed as the secretary of Russia's Security Council.
The Kremlin cited the need for innovation within the defense ministry as the reason behind the reshuffle. Analysts view this move as Putin's effort to align the Russian economy more closely with the war effort in Ukraine. Belousov's appointment, despite his lack of military background, underscores the Kremlin's focus on integrating military spending with the overall economy.
This decision reflects the changing priorities and the substantial resources Russia is allocating to the war in Ukraine. The decision to replace him comes amid rumors of his weakening position and dissatisfaction over Russia's military performance in Ukraine.
Source: BBC
United States Secretary Of States Reassures Ukraine’s President During Visit To The Country
Monday, May 13, 2024 – Secretary of State of the United States, Antony Blinken visited Kyiv, reassuring Ukraine amidst Russian advances. It marked the first high-level visit since United States funding approval. Blinken pledged support, emphasizing Ukraine's resilience. During his speech at the Igor Sikorsky Polytechnic Institute, he promised Ukraine that they were not alone.
President Zelensky urged increased military aid, particularly air defense. Russian forces advanced in northeastern Ukraine, following several advances over the past week, prompting discussions on security assistance. Biden's $95 billion aid package includes $61 billion for Ukraine, reflecting bipartisan support.
Blinken acknowledged delayed aid's impact but emphasized ongoing commitment. He confirmed arms delivery and promised further assistance. Blinken praised Ukrainian courage, highlighting the nation's determination for self-reliance. The visit aimed to bolster Ukraine against Russian aggression, signaling ongoing United States support.
Source: CNN
Two Guards Killed As Gunmen Attack French Prison Van
Tuesday, May 14, 2024 – French authorities initiated a manhunt after gunmen attacked a prison convoy in Normandy, killing two guards and injuring three. The ambush occurred during the transfer of a prisoner from court to prison, marking a rare and violent event for the region.
The assailants, armed with rifles, set a black SUV on fire and collided with the prison van. This is the first death of a French prison staff member since 1992, leaving families devastated. Minister for Justice, Dupond-Moretti, vowed to apprehend the perpetrators, emphasizing the gravity of the crime.
The fugitives remain at large, prompting a large-scale search involving national police and hundreds of officers. The escaped inmate, involved in burglary and a death-related kidnapping, adds urgency to the manhunt. Authorities are implementing roadblocks and perimeter checks in pursuit of the suspects.
Source: CNN
Prime Minister Of Slovakia Battles For His Life After Assassination Attempt
Wednesday, May 15, 2024 – Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico is in critical condition after being shot in Handlova, near Bratislava. The attack, which was labeled an "attack on democracy," occurred outside a cultural center where a government meeting had taken place. The Interior Minister during a press conference confirmed that the Prime Minister was shot in the stomach.
The alleged assailant, detained at the scene, remains unidentified. Initial reports suggest political motivation. The suspect, reportedly a 71-year-old activist, criticized government policies in a video. Officials blame hate speech on social media for inciting violence.
Fico's tenure has been contentious, marked by policy disputes and protests. The incident sparked condemnation from world leaders, emphasizing the threat to Slovak democracy. Fico's political ally, President-elect Peter Pellegrini, decried the attack as unprecedented, urging democratic expression of dissent.
Source: BBC
Gaza Receives First Aid Trucks, Confirmed By The United States
Friday, May 17, 2024 – The United States military confirms the arrival of humanitarian aid in Gaza via a temporary floating pier, with trucks starting to offload aid. Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak, reports the delivery of 8,400 plastic shelters, and 500 tonnes of British aid are expected in the coming weeks.
However, he stresses the need for more open land routes, including the Rafah crossing. United Kingdom Foreign Secretary, Lord Cameron, echoes this sentiment, urging Israel to allow at least 500 aid trucks daily into Gaza. White House spokesman John Kirby notes aid arriving in Cyprus, is to be screened before shipment to Gaza.
The floating pier is set to handle 90 truckloads initially, expanding to 150. Collaboration between British and United States personnel is key in the operation. The aid aims to alleviate the dire situation in Gaza amid ongoing conflict.
Source: BBC
Israel Hits 70 Targets In Gaza, Killing An Islamic Jihadist Leader
Saturday, May 18, 2024 – Israeli airstrikes hit 70 targets in Gaza, including a strike in Jenin that killed a significant Islamic Jihad figure responsible for logistics. The IDF confirmed the death of Islam Khamayseh, a senior operative, stating he was involved in attacks in the area. Palestinian sources reported casualties and damage.
Reports from officials in Palestine show that over 500 Palestinians have lost their lives at the hands of Israeli forces since the start of the conflict. 20 Israelis have also been killed during the same period.
Israeli ground forces advanced into northern Gaza, previously avoided areas, resulting in more casualties. The conflict, ongoing since October, has seen a wave of violence in the West Bank. The United Nations reported over 630,000 displaced in Rafah alone. Humanitarian aid has reached Gaza via a pier built by the United States, but concerns remain over the slow delivery of essential supplies.
Source: The Guardian
Manchester City Wins Premier League Title Ahead Of Arsenal
Sunday, May 19, 2024 – In a swift turn of events, Manchester City secured their fourth consecutive Premier League title with a 3-1 victory over West Ham, spurred by Phil Foden's early goal. Despite Arsenal's last-day push with a 2-1 win over Everton, City's win rendered their efforts futile.
Going into the last matchday with a two-point lead, City knew only a win would guarantee them winning the title ahead of Arsenal, while the Gunners needed to win and hope that City either drew or lost.
Foden, hailed as the Premier League Player of the Season expressed the team's historic achievement with delight. The victory was particularly poignant as no team had clinched four consecutive titles before. Foden, at 23, now boasts an impressive six Premier League titles, cherishing each win with undiminished joy and expressing a desire to continue the winning streak.
Source: CNN
Helicopter Crash In Iran Led To The Death Of The President And Foreign Minister
Monday, May 20, 2024 – A tragic helicopter crash that occurred in Iran claimed the lives of President Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister. The incident occurred during their return from a dam inauguration ceremony. The crash site was in a remote, mountainous region in Iran's northwest. The loss of these influential figures adds to Iran's existing political and economic challenges, exacerbated by tensions with Israel.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei declared five days of mourning and appointed the first Vice President, Mohammad Mokhber, to manage executive duties. The crash underscores the delicate situation Iran faces both domestically, with ongoing dissent and economic struggles, and internationally, amid escalating tensions with Israel.
The Iranian constitution mandates the selection of a new president within 50 days. The government seeks to reassure the public of stability despite the tragedy, with state media broadcasting Islamic prayers and symbols of mourning.
Source: CNN
Aid Distribution For Rafah Has Been Suspended By United Nations
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 – The United Nations has halted food distribution in Rafah, southern Gaza, citing a lack of supplies and security concerns. The suspension comes amid ongoing military operations, severely limiting aid access. The US-installed floating pier, intended to expedite deliveries, faced challenges, with only a fraction of expected trucks reaching their destination due to crowd interference.
With Gaza on the brink of famine and over a million people facing severe hunger, humanitarian agencies are reassessing logistics and seeking alternative routes. Israeli incursions have further exacerbated the crisis, with hospitals targeted and aid access restricted.
According to the Israeli officials, they confirm that they placed no restrictions on the amount of aid going through the crossings. Some aid trucks continue to enter Gaza from Israel, but they represent just a fraction of the supply that is needed.
Source: The Guardian
United Kingdom General Election Set For July 4, Confirmed By The Prime Minister
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 – The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak has announced a surprise early general election for July 4th, aiming to secure a fifth term for the Conservatives. This decision defied expectations of an autumn election, which might have favored the Tories. He announced 10 Downing Street.
Labour leader, Keir Starmer, positioned the election as an opportunity for change away from "Tory chaos," despite the Conservatives trailing in national polls. With Parliament set to suspend imminently, outstanding legislation will be left unaddressed.
Speculation about an early election arose following news of falling inflation rates, which Sunak referenced in his announcement, emphasizing economic recovery. However, the speech faced challenges due to heavy rain and activist disruptions. Some within the Conservative Party questioned the timing, expressing concerns about the stability of the economy.
Source: BBC
Israel Ordered By ICJ To Halt Rafah Offensive Immediately
Friday, May 24, 2024 – The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered Israel to immediately halt its military offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, citing the "disastrous" humanitarian situation. This ruling, the third by the ICJ regarding the conflict, comes amidst increased military strikes by Israeli forces in Gaza.
The ICJ decision follows the International Criminal Court's (ICC) chief prosecutor seeking arrest warrants for senior Hamas and Israeli officials for war crimes. Despite international pressure, Israel's war cabinet insists on continuing military action in Rafah for the safety of its citizens. Israel rejects accusations of genocide and criticism from the ICJ, with some Israeli officials dismissing the court's ruling as "antisemitic."
While the Palestinian Authority and Hamas welcome the ICJ decision, they call for an end to Israel's offensive on all of Gaza. The United States, initially expressing concerns about civilian casualties, now appears to have softened its stance.
Source: The Guardian
Armed Men Raid A Village In Nigeria Abducting Over 160 Villagers
Saturday, May 25, 2024 – In Nigeria's central Niger state, a remote village, Kuchi, was invaded by armed men suspected to be from Boko Haram. Ten people were killed, and about 160 villagers, mostly women and children, were kidnapped. The attackers, arriving on motorbikes, spent hours looting, cooking, and making tea before departing.
Mr Najume, who leads the Council of the Munya Local Government Area, said the community has been traumatized. Amnesty International wrote on social media expressing deep concern, blaming Nigerian authorities for failing to protect lives.
They also wrote that “since 2021, gunmen have been consistently attacking Kuchi village and raping women and girls in their homes. These abductions are part of a pattern of frequent attacks in Niger state, often linked to ransom demands by armed gangs. Several villages were targeted by armed gangs last month kidnapping for ransom.
Source: BBC
Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak Proposes National Service At 18
Sunday, May 26, 2024 – The Conservative Party in Britain, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, plans to introduce mandatory national service for 18-year-olds if it wins the upcoming national election on July 4. This service will offer young adults the option to volunteer one weekend per month over a year or take up a year-long placement in the armed forces.
Sunak justified the move by highlighting perceived threats to democratic values and societal divisions. The proposal is to be funded through measures such as cracking down on tax avoidance and diverting funds from the United Kingdom Shared Prosperity Fund.
Labour Party politicians criticized the plan, emphasizing the need for change through voting. The Conservative Party clarified that while there will be no criminal penalties for non-compliance, participation will be compulsory. Interior Minister James Cleverly defended the move, stating that compulsory actions, such as education until age 18, are already in place.
Source: CNN
Military Rule In Burkina Faso Has Been Extended For Five Years
Monday, May 27, 2024 – Burkina Faso's military regime has announced a five-year extension of its rule following national consultations. Colonel Moussa Diallo, the chairman of the talks, revealed this decision on state television. The extension, starting on July 2, will allow coup leader and acting president Captain Ibrahim Traore to run in future elections.
A video of Traore signing the amended accord was broadcasted on Burkinabè state TV, showcasing public support. Notably, the former ruling majority didn't participate in the talks, and political party activities have been suspended under military rule.
Burkina Faso has faced recurring jihadist violence for nearly a decade, resulting in thousands of casualties. The country witnessed two military coups in 2022, with Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba initially assuming power in January before he was overthrown by Captain Traoré in September.
Source: CNN
Parliament In Columbia Approves Bill To Ban Bullfighting In The Country
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 – Colombia has made a landmark decision by approving a bill to ban bullfighting, a significant victory for animal rights activists. With 93 congressmen voting in favor and only two against, the bill now awaits President Gustavo Petro's final approval. Petro celebrated the decision, emphasizing that it ended the spectacle of death.
The ban includes a three-year transition period to assist those reliant on bullfighting for income. Colombia joins a handful of countries where bullfighting is prohibited, including Brazil and Argentina, challenging the notion of the sport as a cultural expression.
Supporters argue bullfighting is an art form and vital for income generation, while opponents denounce it as bloody and barbaric, causing unnecessary suffering to animals. The ban reflects a cultural shift prioritizing animal welfare and dignity, according to proponents like Congressman Alejandro Garcia and lawmaker Juan Carlos Losada.
Source: CNN
Person Confirmed Dead After Being Sucked By Jet Engine
Wednesday, May 29, 2024 – A tragic incident occurred at Amsterdam's Schiphol airport as a person was killed after being sucked into the running jet engine of a KLM passenger plane preparing to fly to Billund, Denmark. The airline is providing support to passengers and employees affected and is investigating, along with the Netherlands' military police.
All passengers and employees were safely evacuated from the flight. The identity of the deceased remains unknown, and it's too early to determine if it was accidental or intentional. Speculations suggest the victim may have been an employee involved in aircraft pushback. The aircraft involved was a short-haul Embraer jet used for KLM's Cityhopper service.
Schiphol Airport expressed condolences to the deceased's relatives and support for witnesses. Minister for Infrastructure, Mark Harbers, conveyed condolences, highlighting the airport's significance as one of Europe's busiest hubs.
Source: BBC
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