US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order drastically reducing the operations of Voice of America (VOA) and its parent agency, the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM). The White House claims VOA has become a “radical” and “anti-Trump” entity, justifying the move as a taxpayer-saving measure. VOA, which has operated since World War II, is widely used for countering foreign propaganda. Employees, including freelancers and international contractors, have been placed on leave. Critics argue the decision undermines US global influence and press freedom, while Trump supporters praise the move as cutting partisan government spending.
SPACEX CREW REPLACES STRANDED ASTRONAUTS
A SpaceX capsule successfully docked at the International Space Station (ISS), bringing replacements for two NASA astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been stranded for nine months. Initially, their Boeing Starliner capsule was supposed to return them after a week, but technical failures forced NASA to send an alternative ride. The new crew, including astronauts from the U.S., Japan, and Russia, will transition into ISS operations before Wilmore and Williams return aboard a SpaceX capsule later this week. If weather permits, they will undock by Wednesday and splash down off Florida’s coast.
US AIRSTRIKES KILL 31 HOUTHIS
U.S. President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, killing at least 31 people and injuring over 100, according to Houthi officials. The attacks, targeting Sanaa, Saada, and other provinces, were a response to Houthi assaults on Red Sea shipping. Trump warned Iran against supporting the rebels and vowed continued action. The Houthis condemned the strikes, vowing retaliation. The U.S. military, including the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group, was involved. This marks the first such operation under Trump’s second term, continuing previous U.S. military actions against Houthi forces threatening international trade routes.
SERBIA ERUPTS IN ANTI-GRAFT PROTESTS
Serbia witnessed its largest anti-corruption protest in recent months as over 100,000 demonstrators filled the streets of Belgrade. The movement ignited after a railway station roof collapse in Novi Sad killed 15 people, fuelling public anger over government corruption and negligence. Protesters, including students, farmers, and civic groups, marched toward the National Assembly, demanding accountability. President Aleksandar Vucic remained defiant, dismissing the demonstrations as an attempt to destabilize his government. While tensions rose, the protest remained largely peaceful. The movement’s momentum continues to challenge Vucic’s administration amid growing political uncertainty in Serbia.
NORTH MACEDONIA NIGHTCLUB FIRE KILLS 59
A devastating fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, has killed at least 59 people and injured over 155. The blaze, triggered by pyrotechnic sparks igniting a flammable ceiling, broke out during a packed concert by hip-hop duo DNK. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as attendees struggled to escape. Authorities have arrested the club owner and issued warrants for three others. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski called it a national tragedy, with seven days of mourning declared. European leaders expressed condolences as officials launch urgent safety inspections of entertainment venues across the country.
