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Tag: War

Russia-Ukraine War Live: US Envoy Steve Witkoff Heads to Moscow as Trump Pushes for Rapid Peace Deal

Kamal Yalwa03 mins

At least 19 civilians have been wounded following a series of overnight Russian drone strikes on Ukraine’s southeastern Zaporizhzhia region, authorities said, as heavy fighting continues along the front lines. The attacks came amid intensifying diplomatic activity, with the United States confirming that special envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Moscow for high-level talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of Washington’s push to secure a ceasefire agreement. Ukraine signals openness to US plan The Ukrainian government said it supports the “essence” of a new US-backed proposal aimed at ending the nearly four-year war. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that “progress” is being made, even as negotiations drag on in Geneva and other European capitals. Witkoff’s visit is the most direct engagement yet between Washington and Moscow under the Trump administration’s peace initiative. Russia accuses Europe of undermining peace efforts Russia’s Foreign Ministry claimed that European politicians and media outlets are attempting to undermine US-led efforts to broker a settlement, accusing Western governments of trying to prolong the conflict to weaken Moscow. The EU, UK and other Western partners have publicly expressed concerns about parts of the US plan, warning that any agreement must protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Russian air defences repel multiple drone attacks Russia’s Defence Ministry said its air defence units intercepted 33 Ukrainian drones across the Belgorod, Voronezh, Lipetsk, and Bryansk regions on Tuesday night. No casualties were reported. As diplomatic efforts resume and battlefield intensity escalates, the coming days are expected to be pivotal in determining whether the warring parties move closer to a negotiated settlement or brace for another winter of fighting.

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Zelenskyy Says Ukraine Faces ‘Difficult Choice’ as Trump Pushes for Rapid End to War

Kamal Yalwa07 mins

Kyiv weighs US plan seen as endorsing key Russian demands; European allies express concerns. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Kyiv is approaching a defining moment in its war with Russia as it considers a United States peace proposal that critics say aligns closely with Moscow’s demands. Speaking on Friday in the street outside his presidential office, Zelenskyy urged national unity and insisted he would not betray Ukraine’s core values. “Now is one of the most difficult moments of our history,” he said. “Ukraine can face a very difficult choice — either losing dignity or risk losing a major partner. I will fight 24/7 to ensure that at least two points are not overlooked: the dignity and freedom of Ukrainians.” Trump Sets Deadline for Acceptance The statement comes as US President Donald Trump appears to be tightening pressure on Kyiv to accept his 28-point proposal to end the nearly four-year war. Trump told Fox News Radio on Friday that next Thursday was “an appropriate” deadline for Ukraine to accept the deal. Reuters, citing two people familiar with the matter, reported that the Trump administration has threatened to cut off intelligence support and weapons supplies if Kyiv refuses. According to multiple media reports, the US plan includes terms long demanded by Russia, such as: Ukraine ceding more territory Limits on the size of Ukraine’s military A ban on Ukrainian membership in NATO Lifting Western sanctions on Moscow Reintegration of Russia into the G8 Putin Calls Proposal ‘A New Version’ of Earlier Plans Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow had received the “modernised” US plan, calling it “a new version” of what was discussed earlier this year before the Alaska summit. He added that the text had not been negotiated directly with Russia, “and I can guess why,” noting that Washington has not yet secured Kyiv’s approval. “Ukraine is against it,” Putin said. “Apparently, Ukraine and its European allies are still under illusions of inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia on the battlefield.” Battlefield Pressures Intensify Ukraine is facing growing military challenges as Russian forces continue to make gains. At least 31 people were killed and 94 wounded in a Russian missile strike on an apartment block in the western city of Ternopil earlier this week. The Kremlin claimed that 5,000 Ukrainian soldiers were trapped on the eastern bank of the Oskil River in Kharkiv region — a claim Kyiv has not commented on. Fighting continues around the eastern cities of Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad, with Russian advances also reported in Zaporizhzhia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said battlefield gains should convince Zelenskyy that “it is better to negotiate now rather than later,” adding that “the space for freedom of decision-making is shrinking” as Ukraine loses territory. Jim Townsend, former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Europe and NATO, told Al Jazeera that Ukraine faces increasing pressure. “If the US pulls back and says, ‘If you’re not going to agree to this, we won’t support you,’ then Zelenskyy will be under tremendous pressure to accept — no matter how hard it feels,” he said. European Leaders Push Back, Call for ‘Just Peace’ Key European leaders — French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz — held talks with Zelenskyy on Friday.They welcomed US efforts but stressed that any peace must protect European and Ukrainian security interests. In a joint message, they reiterated their “unwavering and full support for Ukraine” and its path toward a “lasting and just peace.” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned of the dangers of accepting a deal dictated by Russian aggression. “We all want this war to end, but how it ends matters,” she said. “Russia has no legal right whatsoever to concessions from the country it invaded.” Reporting from Berlin, Al Jazeera’s Dominic Kane noted that while Europe is presenting a united front, its leaders are unlikely to determine the final terms. “Ultimately, the capitals where everything will be decided are Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington,” he said.

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Donald Trump Threatens War Against Nigeria Over Alleged Christian Killings

Wale busari04 mins

President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Nigeria, threatening to unleash military action if the alleged killings of Christians in the country persist. Just a day after labeling Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern,” Trump took to his Truth Social platform with a fierce message: “If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the U.S.A. will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing,’ to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities. I am hereby instructing our Department of War to prepare for possible action. If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our CHERISHED Christians! WARNING: THE NIGERIAN GOVERNMENT BETTER MOVE FAST!” Trump’s remarks came after his earlier statement accusing the Nigerian government of turning a blind eye to what he described as the “mass slaughter of Christians” by radical Islamic groups. He said Christianity in Nigeria faces an “existential threat,” adding that the killings have continued unchecked for years. In response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration rejected Trump’s comments, describing them as “misleading and uninformed.” Tinubu reiterated that Nigeria is a secular state that respects freedom of religion and that ongoing violence in the country stems from terrorism, ethnic clashes, and banditry—not religious persecution. The warning from Trump has sparked widespread reactions across global political circles, with many analysts expressing concern that such rhetoric could heighten diplomatic tensions between Washington and Abuja. Experts also caution that the security crisis in Nigeria is complex and cannot be reduced to a simple Christian-versus-Muslim narrative. Under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act, Nigeria’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” could already trigger sanctions or limits on aid. But Trump’s latest statement goes further—signaling potential U.S. military involvement if what he calls “Christian genocide” continues. The development has drawn mixed reactions globally, with Christian advocacy groups praising Trump’s firmness, while others warn that military threats could destabilize relations and worsen Nigeria’s fragile security situation.

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Ukraine War: Trump Says Zelenskyy Can End War as Russian Strike in Kharkiv Kills Seven

Fola Badmus03 mins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet Donald Trump at the White House today, with discussions expected to focus on possible ceasefire arrangements and the future of U.S. support for Ukraine. The talks come amid heightened tensions following a deadly overnight Russian missile strike on the eastern city of Kharkiv, which killed at least seven civilians and injured dozens more. Trump’s Remarks Ahead of Talks Speaking to reporters en route to Washington, Trump said he believed Zelenskyy had the ability to “end the war,” though he did not clarify whether he envisioned concessions to Russia as part of a potential settlement. He reiterated his stance that the U.S. would not pursue new business or diplomatic openings with Moscow until the conflict was “settled,” suggesting a possible shift in tone while maintaining pressure on the Kremlin. European Support for Zelenskyy Ahead of the White House meeting, several European leaders pledged continued backing for Ukraine. Officials in Brussels and Berlin emphasized that any negotiations should not compromise Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Zelenskyy is expected to present a renewed appeal for sustained U.S. military and financial aid, particularly as concerns grow over battlefield losses and Russia’s intensified air campaign. Kharkiv Under Fire In the early hours of this morning, Russian forces launched missile strikes on residential districts in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. Local authorities confirmed seven deaths and said rescue workers were still searching for survivors in the rubble. The strike is the latest in a series of escalations targeting civilian areas, which Kyiv has denounced as acts of terror designed to weaken public morale. What’s Next The outcome of today’s White House talks could prove pivotal. If Trump signals willingness to broker a ceasefire or peace talks, it may open a new phase in the nearly four-year conflict. However, Ukraine’s leadership continues to insist that any agreement must ensure sovereignty and security guarantees, while Russia shows no sign of backing down militarily.

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Ukraine War Update: Zelenskyy Meets Starmer; Kremlin Confirms Trump-Putin Summit Plans

Fola Badmus02 mins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street on August 14, highlighting Britain’s continued support for Ukraine ahead of the upcoming U.S.–Russia summit in Alaska. Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity and warned that further pressure could be applied to Russia if necessary. The meeting comes at a critical moment, as the Kremlin confirmed that Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will hold a one-on-one meeting this Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. Following the private discussion, their delegations will join for broader talks, concluding with a joint press conference. This will be the first in-person meeting between Trump and Putin since 2019. It has raised concerns among European leaders, who fear Ukraine’s interests could be sidelined during negotiations. Many have stressed that any resolution to the conflict must not undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. Trump has described the summit as a “listening exercise,” with the aim of exploring possible ceasefire arrangements. He has also indicated that economic measures could be considered if diplomatic progress stalls, while Putin has framed the talks as an opportunity to address security concerns and “reset” strained relations.

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Gaza Students Take Exams for the First Time Since War Began

Fola Badmus04 mins

Hundreds of Palestinian students in Gaza are sitting their end-of-secondary-school exams for the first time since the war began in October 2023. Despite ongoing Israeli attacks and widespread devastation, about 1,500 students are taking the crucial exams organised by Gaza’s Ministry of Education, aiming to secure a chance for university admission. The exams, conducted electronically, are part of an online initiative launched by the ministry to ensure education continues amidst the destruction of nearly all educational infrastructure in Gaza. Some students are taking the exams from home, while others are at designated centers, depending on safety conditions in their areas. Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum, reporting from Deir el-Balah, highlighted that for many students, these exams represent a gateway to higher education and future opportunities. “Even in a warzone, with no classrooms, no books, and barely any internet, Gaza’s students are showing up, logging in, and sitting their final exam, refusing to let war erase their future,” he said. Due to the war, many students who should have already started university have had their education delayed. The new online exam platform, the first of its kind in Gaza, was created to allow students to complete their studies despite the ongoing conflict. However, challenges such as weak internet connections, lack of devices, and unsafe conditions remain major obstacles. Morad al-Agha, exams director for the Central Gaza Governorate, confirmed that technical preparations have been made to ensure smooth administration of the exams. Students have already participated in mock tests to familiarize themselves with the system. One student, Doha Khatab, shared the struggles of digital exams: “The internet is weak, many of us do not have devices, and there is no safe space to take the test. We also lost our books in the bombardment.” To support students, some teachers have reopened damaged classrooms to offer in-person guidance. Enam Abu Slisa, a teacher, explained, “It is the first time the ministry has done this online and students are confused, so we’re trying to guide them step by step.” According to the United Nations, 95 percent of Gaza’s educational infrastructure has been destroyed, leaving more than 660,000 children out of school. Many former school buildings are now shelters for displaced families and are still vulnerable to Israeli airstrikes. A recent report presented to the UN Human Rights Council accuses Israeli forces of systematically targeting education infrastructure in Gaza, actions described as potential war crimes.

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It’s a War: Volunteers Lead Resistance as Trump’s Deportation Raids Intensify Across LA

Fola Badmus06 mins

As immigration raids sweep across Los Angeles under orders from former President Donald Trump, a network of volunteer-led resistance groups is rising up to protect undocumented communities from what they call “warfare in the streets.” At 5:30 a.m. in South Central LA, a group of volunteers from Union del Barrio gather in a laundromat parking lot. Armed not with weapons, but with walkie-talkies, megaphones, and leaflets, their mission is to patrol immigrant-dense neighborhoods and warn residents about imminent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. “This is like Vietnam,” says Ron, a high school history teacher and activist. “We’re taking losses, but in the end we’re going to win. It’s a war.” The group is led by Francisco “Chavo” Romero, who each morning rallies volunteers before dispatching them into the field. On this particular morning, the streets seem calm, but elsewhere in Los Angeles, ICE agents are already conducting dawn raids. ICE Arrests Surge, Communities in Fear Since the beginning of June, more than 2,800 undocumented immigrants have been arrested in Los Angeles alone, according to the Department of Homeland Security—a dramatic spike from the 850 arrests recorded in May. The raids have prompted chaos, street protests, and rising fear in immigrant communities. Videos of ICE agents tackling individuals at car washes, construction sites, and outside homes have gone viral, fueling public outrage. In Pomona, a Latino neighborhood east of LA, Maria recounts how her husband Javier, who has lived in the U.S. for nearly 40 years, was arrested at work by masked ICE agents. “I know they’re doing their job,” Maria says tearfully, “but they don’t have to do it like that—pushing people down like they’re animals.” Javier is now being held in a detention center two hours away. Their grandchildren, especially the eldest, are asking when “papa” is coming home. “I don’t know what to tell him,” Maria says. “He’s not a criminal.” Volunteers Counter ICE Tactics Union del Barrio’s resistance effort includes identifying suspicious vehicles—like white SUVs with tinted windows—suspected of being used by ICE for surveillance. Volunteers distribute flyers with legal advice and encourage people not to open their doors without a warrant. “People are scared,” says Ron, pointing at a fruit vendor who he says is the typical ICE target: vulnerable and easy to detain. Businesses Suffer, Owners Plan to Hide Workers The fear extends to the business community. Soledad, who runs a Mexican restaurant in Hollywood, says half of her undocumented staff are too afraid to show up for work. “I’ve told them: get inside the fridge, hide behind the stove—just don’t run.” Soledad works double shifts to keep her restaurant afloat amid plummeting sales and no way to cover wages. “Sometimes I cry,” she admits. “We’re desperate.” Trump’s Crackdown Fuels Tensions The White House defends the raids as targeting criminals, but activists argue the reality is far more indiscriminate. ICE agents have reportedly faced resistance—including being shot at—making their operations more perilous. Still, Trump has instructed ICE to intensify the crackdown further. Tensions have only escalated with the deployment of National Guard troops, prompting new waves of protests and confrontations on the streets. As deportation numbers climb, so too does the resolve of resistance groups like Union del Barrio. “We’re not backing down,” says Chavo. “We’re organized, we’re ready, and we’re fighting for our communities.”

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Russia to Import 1 Million Indian Workers to Fill Labor Gaps Amid Ukraine War Strains

Russia to Import 1 Million Indian Workers to Fill Labor Gaps Amid Ukraine War Strains

Fola Badmus02 mins

Russia plans to bring in up to one million Indian workers by the end of 2025 to combat severe labor shortages in its industrial sectors, especially in the Sverdlovsk region, officials say. Andrey Besedin, head of the Ural Chamber of Commerce and Industry (UCPP), disclosed the initiative during a recent event, noting that the move comes amid mounting workforce gaps caused by military mobilization and declining interest in factory jobs among Russian youth. The labor plan, reportedly developed in coordination with Indian counterparts, will be facilitated by the opening of a new Indian consulate in Yekaterinburg. The recruited workforce will include both general laborers and highly skilled specialists. Besedin added that Russia is also in talks with Sri Lanka and North Korea for similar labor supply agreements, as the country scrambles to maintain productivity in key sectors while facing international sanctions and wartime disruptions. He acknowledged that while the influx could help stabilize industries, integrating the foreign workers would present cultural and operational challenges. “We must prepare for a complex adaptation process,” he said, citing differences in work ethics and practices. The mass recruitment drive highlights the growing internal strain on Russia’s economy amid its prolonged war in Ukraine, which has pulled tens of thousands of working-age men into military service and reduced the available industrial workforce.

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