In a shocking revelation, over 6,100 undocumented immigrants—mostly Hispanics—were falsely marked as deceased in the U.S. Social Security system under a DOGE-led initiative backed by Elon Musk and President Trump. Legal experts warn this move is illegal and dehumanising, stripping victims of work, healthcare, and essential rights. Internal opposition, including senior SSA official Greg Pearre, was swiftly silenced. Critics allege it was a deliberate strategy to push migrants out. The White House defends it as protecting citizens’ benefits. Lawsuits have been filed, calling it a grave misuse of federal systems and a breach of human rights.
CHINA DEFIES TRUMP’S TARIFF WAR
China has abandoned its diplomatic charm strategy and adopted a hardline response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive new tariffs. Declaring a “wartime footing,” Beijing has ordered foreign and commerce officials to cancel leaves, maintain 24/7 readiness, and engage globally for support. Chinese propaganda now channels Mao Zedong’s “never yield” spirit, as retaliatory tariffs hit back at Washington. Diplomatic backchannels are frozen, and outreach to U.S. allies is intensifying. Despite attempts to reignite dialogue, Trump insists Beijing panicked. China is also rallying domestic support, shifting its economic focus inward, and warning of long-term resistance in the escalating trade war.
RUSSIA STRIKES SUMY, DOZENS DEAD
A Russian missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Sumy killed over 30 civilians and injured 99, including 11 children, during Palm Sunday celebrations. European leaders condemned the attack, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen calling it “barbaric” and reaffirming that “Russia was and remains the aggressor.” The strike is the second mass-casualty event in Ukraine within two weeks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy demanded a stronger global response, calling Russia a “terrorist.” The deadly assault jeopardizes US-brokered ceasefire negotiations and signals Moscow’s intent to intensify conflict ahead of a potential spring offensive.
POPE VISITS ST PETER’S SQUARE
Pope Francis made a surprise visit to St Peter’s Square following the Palm Sunday Mass, just a day after another unannounced stop at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome. The pontiff, still recovering from a serious bout of pneumonia, appeared in a wheelchair, blessing and greeting the crowd. His homily, read by Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, reflected on Christ’s suffering and encouraged compassion and solidarity. Despite ongoing health issues, the Pope has resumed limited public appearances, including recent meetings with British royals and visits to key Vatican locations. His visible resilience has inspired many during the Holy Week celebrations.
SPAIN DISMANTLES MIGRANT TRAFFICKING NETWORK
Spanish authorities have dismantled a human trafficking ring that smuggled Moroccan migrants into Spain and other EU nations. The network reportedly flew migrants to Romania, where they were then transported to Spain via trucks and vans. Each migrant paid approximately €3,000. Over two years, more than 50 smuggling trips were conducted, carrying groups of up to 50 people. Four individuals were arrested in Cartagena, Murcia, accused of trafficking and criminal association. The operation, led by Spain’s Civil Guard and supported by Europol and Frontex, revealed that the group’s logistics hub was in Romania, coordinating with contacts in Morocco and Spain.
