The Kremlin announced its intent to restart nuclear disarmament talks with the U.S., highlighting its interest in negotiations under the New START treaty framework. This comes after Russia’s withdrawal from the treaty in 2023 amidst strained U.S.-Russia relations due to the Ukraine conflict. Both nations have adhered to warhead limits but lack an agreement on future arms control. The New START, signed in 2010, caps deployed warheads at 1,550 per country and is set to expire in 2026. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized Russia’s readiness to negotiate, blaming the U.S. for halting discussions. Nuclear tensions remain high amidst global concern.
WEATHER WREAKS HAVOC IN UK
Storm Eowyn, described as a “once-in-a-generation” weather event, has wreaked havoc across the UK and Ireland. With record-breaking wind speeds of 135 km/h recorded in Galway, flights have been cancelled at major airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Dublin. Train services have been suspended, with operators issuing “do not travel” warnings due to safety concerns. Over 800,000 homes and businesses are without power, and all schools in Ireland and Northern Ireland are closed. Citizens are urged to stay indoors as red weather warnings signal life-threatening conditions. Airlines and train operators face scrutiny over passenger care amid widespread delays.
ITALY EXPELS LIBYAN WARLORD
Italy expelled Libyan warlord Ossama al-Masri, wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes, citing “urgent security reasons.” Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi defended the decision in a Senate session, stating al-Masri posed a societal danger. The expulsion has drawn criticism from human rights groups and senators, who accused Italy of ignoring ICC obligations to extradite suspects. Al-Masri, accused of crimes including murder, torture, and rape at Libya’s Mitiga prison, returned to Tripoli, where he was welcomed as a hero. Legal authorities cited procedural errors during his arrest, sparking outrage over Italy’s compliance with international justice protocols.
FRENCHMAN FREED FROM DEATH ROW
Indonesia has agreed to repatriate Serge Atlaoui, a Frenchman on death row for nearly 20 years for drug offenses. Atlaoui, 61, was sentenced to death in 2007 after being arrested at a suspected drug factory, though he maintains his innocence. French and Indonesian officials finalized the agreement following prolonged negotiations. Atlaoui, who requires weekly medical treatment, will return to France, where his future remains uncertain. This follows a series of recent prisoner releases, including members of the “Bali Nine” and Filipina Mary Jane Veloso. Indonesia’s strict drug laws continue to impact hundreds, with 530 individuals currently on death row.
M23 REBELS ADVANCE TOWARD GOMA
Intense fighting erupted in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as M23 rebels advanced toward Goma, a city of 2 million people and a regional humanitarian hub. Congolese forces deployed helicopters and tanks to halt the rebel offensive after losing several towns in North Kivu province. The conflict has displaced over 7 million people, exacerbating one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. The UN condemned the violence and warned of broader regional repercussions. Rwanda faces accusations of backing the rebels, predominantly ethnic Tutsis who defected from the Congolese army over a decade ago. Schools in Goma closed amid growing panic.
