Russia has announced the recapture of Sudzha, the largest town in Kursk seized by Ukrainian forces last year. The Russian Defence Ministry claims to have reclaimed 28 settlements in western Kursk, releasing drone footage as proof. Ukrainian military officials acknowledge heavy Russian strikes but remain vague on Sudzha’s status, stating that troops are manoeuvring to stronger positions. Reports indicate over 260 Ukrainian troops killed and significant military assets destroyed. Meanwhile, more than 200 Sudzha civilians were evacuated as fighting continues. The Kremlin insists that Ukraine has suffered major losses, while Kyiv asserts its resilience against Russian advances.
US EXPELS SOUTH AFRICAN AMBASSADOR
The US has expelled South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, citing his critical remarks about President Donald Trump and his administration. Secretary of State Marco Rubio labelled Rasool “no longer welcome,” accusing him of “race-baiting.” The decision follows heightened tensions between the two nations, exacerbated by a US executive order freezing aid to South Africa over alleged racial discrimination against white Afrikaners. South Africa’s government called the move “regrettable” and denied any unjust land seizures. Rasool, a former ambassador with deep diplomatic experience, had been seen as a key figure in managing relations with the Trump administration.
MUSK PLANS MARS MISSION 2026
Elon Musk announced that SpaceX’s first mission to Mars will launch by the end of 2026, despite ongoing Starship test failures. The massive 123m rocket, crucial to Musk’s vision of making humanity “multi-planetary,” has faced multiple explosions, including one last week. Musk remains confident, predicting human landings as early as 2029 but more likely by 2031. NASA also plans to use a modified Starship for its Artemis Moon missions. The upcoming Mars mission will carry the Tesla humanoid robot, Optimus, designed for everyday tasks. Before another launch, SpaceX must complete an investigation per Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.
CUBA FACES MAJOR POWER OUTAGE
Cuba experienced a widespread power outage on March 14, 2025, affecting Havana and multiple provinces, leaving millions in darkness. The failure at the Diezmero substation disrupted the National Electric System, with internet services also impacted. Hotels with generators remained lit while most homes suffered blackouts. Aging infrastructure and fuel shortages continue to plague Cuba’s power grid, with authorities promising solar energy solutions. Similar outages in recent years have triggered anti-government protests. The Electric Union estimated a 42% deficit in power supply during peak hours, worsening the island’s economic struggles. Recovery efforts are ongoing to restore electricity.
US, ISRAEL PLAN GAZA RESETTLEMENT
A report by the Associated Press claims that the US and Israel have approached Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland to discuss resettling Palestinians from Gaza. While Sudan rejected the idea, Somalia and Somaliland denied being contacted. The plan, supported by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, has drawn criticism from rights groups, which warn that forcing Palestinians to leave could constitute a war crime. The White House insists Trump stands by his vision despite international backlash. Critics question the claim that Palestinians would be relocated to a “beautiful area,” given the instability in the proposed nations.
