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Category: International

  • Obama Condemns shooting at White House Correspondents’ Dinner, Trump calls for secure ballroom speedy completion

    Obama Condemns shooting at White House Correspondents’ Dinner, Trump calls for secure ballroom speedy completion

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Former U.S. President Barack Obama has condemned the shooting incident that occurred during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night, where President Donald Trump and senior government officials were present.

    Obama noted that while the motives behind the attack remain unclear, it is vital to reject violence in democratic spaces. He praised the U.S. Secret Service for its swift response, which prevented what could have been a mass shooting.

    “It’s also a sobering reminder of the courage and sacrifice that U.S. Secret Service Agents show every day. I’m grateful to them – and thankful that the agent who was shot is going to be okay,” Obama said.

    President Trump, in a statement, also addressed the incident, stressing that it underscored the need for a secure ballroom within the White House grounds. He said the ongoing construction of a “Militarily Top Secret Ballroom” would have prevented the shooting, as it is designed with the highest-level security features.

    “It cannot be built fast enough! While beautiful, it has every highest-level security feature there is… inside the gates of the most secure building in the World, The White House,” Trump stated.

    Trump criticized what he described as a “ridiculous Ballroom lawsuit” filed by a woman with no standing, arguing that nothing should be allowed to interfere with the project, which he said is on budget and ahead of schedule.

  • ICC explains victims’ rights and participation in court proceedings

    ICC explains victims’ rights and participation in court proceedings

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — The International Criminal Court (ICC) has reaffirmed the central role of victims in its judicial processes, underscoring their rights to participate, seek reparations, and receive assistance under the Rome Statute.

    Victims, according to the Court, are individuals or institutions that have suffered harm as a result of crimes within its jurisdiction. This includes not only persons but also organizations dedicated to religion, education, art, science, or humanitarian purposes whose property has been directly affected. The Court emphasized that its staff are trained to address the specific needs of vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and survivors of sexual or gender‑based violence.

    Participation in Proceedings

    Under Article 68(3) of the Rome Statute, victims have the right to present their views and concerns directly to ICC judges. This right extends from the pre‑trial stage through appeals. Victims may apply to participate using standard forms developed by the Registry, with separate guidelines for individuals and institutions. The Victims Participation and Reparations Section (VPRS) provides assistance, training, and advice to ensure applications are properly completed and expectations are managed.

    For the first time in international criminal justice, victims can be represented in the courtroom by legal counsel. Where victims lack resources, the Registry may provide financial assistance to secure representation. Their identities are protected through pseudonyms, ensuring confidentiality while allowing their voices to be heard. Victims’ lawyers may attend hearings, file submissions, and even question witnesses, enabling them to contribute independently of the Prosecution or Defence.

    Reparations and Assistance

    The ICC also highlighted victims’ right to reparations following a conviction. Trial Chambers may order convicted persons to pay compensation, either individually or collectively, through the Trust Fund for Victims. Reparations may include monetary awards, return of property, rehabilitation, medical support, or symbolic measures such as memorials and apologies.

    Beyond reparations, victims may benefit from assistance programs authorized by the Court, including rehabilitation and support services, even before a conviction is secured.

    Institutional Support

    The Office of Public Counsel for Victims (OPCV) provides independent legal representation and support, ensuring victims’ rights are protected without external pressure. The International Criminal Court Bar Association (ICCBA) also plays a role, representing counsel and support staff, and serving as a forum for professional dialogue.

    The ICC reiterated that victims’ participation strengthens truth‑seeking and accountability, making them indispensable to the pursuit of international justice.

  • IAEA reaffirms support for Ukraine’s nuclear safety at 40th anniversary of Chernobyl disaster

    IAEA reaffirms support for Ukraine’s nuclear safety at 40th anniversary of Chernobyl disaster

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Mariano Grossi, has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, as the country marked the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster.

    Grossi made the remarks during a visit to Kyiv, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other senior officials to discuss ongoing efforts to stabilise and rebuild the country’s energy infrastructure amid the continuing conflict.

    According to the IAEA chief, discussions with President Zelenskyy focused on the situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), as well as the agency’s sustained support for Ukraine’s energy sector, including plans for new power units at the Khmelnitsky Nuclear Power Plant and repairs to the New Safe Confinement structure at the Chernobyl site.

    “The IAEA remains committed to supporting nuclear safety and security in Ukraine,” Grossi said, noting the agency’s ongoing presence and technical assistance across the country’s nuclear facilities.

    Ukraine’s Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal, also announced the signing of a memorandum of cooperation between Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy and the IAEA aimed at advancing the recovery and development of the nuclear energy sector.

    The agreement provides a framework for the modernisation of nuclear power plants, restoration of critical grid infrastructure, and facilitation of new power unit construction, particularly at the Khmelnytskyi facility. It also includes support for institutional reforms at Energoatom, the state-owned nuclear energy operator.

    During the visit, Grossi handed over a specialised methodology for operating nuclear power plants under wartime conditions—an initiative both sides agreed upon in 2025. The document is expected to serve as a global reference for managing nuclear facilities in conflict zones and preventing potential disasters.

    In addition, the IAEA delivered two ambulances to support emergency response operations at nuclear facilities, including those in southern Ukraine and the Chernobyl zone.

    Grossi also held talks with representatives of the European Commission, including Valdis Dombrovskis, focusing on reconstruction efforts at Chernobyl and broader nuclear safety initiatives.

    The IAEA chief participated in the Ukraine Energy Coordination Group event titled “40 Years After Chernobyl,” alongside Ukrainian officials, where he highlighted the agency’s decades-long role in shaping global nuclear safety standards and its continued engagement in Ukraine during the ongoing war.

    “From supporting recovery after the 1986 accident to maintaining a presence at all nuclear power plants in Ukraine today, the IAEA has remained committed,” Grossi said.

    Commemorating the anniversary, officials reiterated the importance of sustained international cooperation to ensure nuclear safety, prevent future incidents, and support Ukraine’s long-term energy resilience.

  • Russia reacts to Mali terror attacks, alleges militants trained by Western security agencies

    Russia reacts to Mali terror attacks, alleges militants trained by Western security agencies

    BAMAKO, Mali (NPA) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia has reacted to Saturday’s coordinated terrorist attacks in the Mali, alleging that some of the armed groups involved may have received training from Western security agencies.

    In a statement released on Sunday, Moscow said that on April 25, armed anti-government groups carried out a series of coordinated assaults targeting the capital, Bamako, as well as key regions including Mopti, Gao and Kidal.

    The attacks were reportedly led by militants linked to Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), alongside Tuareg separatist fighters from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). Russian authorities stated that approximately 250 militants attempted to storm the Bamako-Sénou International Airport and a nearby military installation.

    According to the statement, the Malian Armed Forces successfully repelled the assault and have since launched follow-up operations aimed at neutralising the attackers and restoring security in affected areas. Moscow further claimed that the militants “may have been trained by Western security agencies,” though it did not provide evidence to substantiate the allegation.

    Russia expressed deep concern over the escalation, warning that the attacks pose a direct threat to the stability of Mali and the wider Sahel region, as  terrorist networks continue to maintain a presence across several countries, including Nigeria, where groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province remain active.

    The Russian Embassy in Mali confirmed that no Russian nationals were reported among the victims, adding that the mission is in contact with Malian authorities and closely monitoring the situation on the ground.

    The Foreign Ministry advised Russian citizens to avoid travel to Mali, citing ongoing security risks. Those currently in the country were urged to exercise heightened caution and adhere strictly to safety guidelines issued by local authorities.

    “Moscow will continue to closely monitor developments and coordinate with partners to address emerging security challenges,” the statement added.

    Saturday’s attacks highlight the deepening instability in Mali, where insurgent and separatist groups have stepped up operations despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts by national forces and international partners. The Malian government has frequently accused Western powers, particularly France, of aiding the militants by providing arms and intelligence to undermine its security apparatus. France has consistently denied these allegations, insisting it is not working with any group to destabilize the region.

  • Trump survives assassination attempt; Netanyahu, Modi react

    Trump survives assassination attempt; Netanyahu, Modi react

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA) —Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed shock over the alleged attempted assassination of President Donald Trump last night in Washington, D.C., saying he was relieved that the President and the First Lady are safe and strong.

    Netanyahu, alongside his wife Sarah, extended best wishes for a full and speedy recovery to the wounded police officer and saluted the U.S. Secret Service for their swift and decisive action.

    Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted to the incident, stating he was relieved to learn that President Trump, the First Lady, and Vice President are safe and unharmed following the security breach at a Washington, D.C. hotel. He extended his best wishes for their continued safety and well-being, stressing that violence has no place in a democracy and must be unequivocally condemned.

    Earlier, Trump posted on Truth Social: “Law Enforcement has requested that we leave the premises, consistent with protocol, which we will do immediately. I will be giving a press conference in 30 minutes from the White House Press Briefing Room. The First Lady, plus the Vice President, and all Cabinet members, are in perfect condition. We will be speaking to you in a half an hour. I have spoken with all the representatives in charge of the event, and we will be rescheduling within 30 days.”

    Trump described the incident as “quite an evening in D.C.,” praising the Secret Service and law enforcement for acting quickly and bravely. He confirmed that the shooter had been apprehended and noted that while he recommended that the event “LET THE SHOW GO ON,” final decisions would be guided by law enforcement. “Regardless of that decision, the evening will be much different than planned, and we’ll just, plain, have to do it again,” he added.

  • Senegal, AU, Turkey, international community condemn Mali terrorist attacks

    Senegal, AU, Turkey, international community condemn Mali terrorist attacks

    DAKAR, Senegal(NPA) — Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has strongly condemned the coordinated terrorist attacks in the Republic of Mali carried out today by the Al-Qaeda–linked group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and Tuareg separatists from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA).

    Fighting erupted in Bamako, Gao, Kidal, Sévaré, and around the Kati military base near the capital, with the FLA claiming to have seized control of Kidal.

    In a statement, President Faye expressed solidarity with Mali, noting: “In the face of the ordeal and widespread killings and destruction by the terrorists, the Senegalese people, and in my own name, stand firmly with the Malian Government, the Defense and Security Forces, and the entire Malian people.” He reiterated Senegal’s commitment to work alongside Mali and other countries in the sub-region toward restoring peace and security.

    As of the time of filing this report, Malian military authorities announced that the situation had been brought under control, describing the assault as the most coordinated attack against the government in years.

    The African Union has also condemned the attacks, warning they endanger civilians and undermine regional stability.

    Turkey and other international actors also issued strong condemnations, pledging solidarity with Mali. The U.S. Embassy in Mali advised citizens to shelter in place and avoid travel.

    Mali has faced persistent insecurity since 2012, with jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS operating alongside Tuareg separatists. The country’s military junta, led by Assimi Goïta, relies heavily on Russian-backed Africa Corps mercenaries after expelling French forces and UN peacekeepers.

    Today’s attacks in Mali were carried out by JNIM (Al-Qaeda affiliate) and Tuareg separatists (FLA), striking multiple cities including Bamako and Kidal. The violence has drawn widespread condemnation across Africa and internationally, underscoring the worsening instability in the Sahel.

  • Macron meets Middle East leaders, pledges support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and regional stability

    Macron meets Middle East leaders, pledges support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and regional stability

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, and Jordan’s Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah II on the sidelines of the informal European Council meeting in Cyprus. The discussions focused on addressing the challenges facing countries in the Middle East and strengthening cooperation between the region and Europe.

    Macron stressed the importance of working together on a shared agenda of sovereignty, stability, and prosperity, noting that both Europe and the Middle East are grappling with the consequences of ongoing regional conflicts. He emphasized that the Middle East is poised to become a central link in supply routes with the European Union, a development he said would benefit both peoples and economies.

    The French President announced that France will continue to play its part in advancing these objectives, particularly by supporting Lebanon in its efforts to uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity. He underscored France’s backing for the Lebanese state’s monopoly over weapons, describing it as a categorical plan to disarm Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed armed group operating in Lebanon.

    Macron further stated that France stands ready to mobilize its partners when the time comes, including by organizing a conference in support of Lebanon’s armed and security forces as well as the country’s economic recovery.

    European diplomats at the Cyprus meeting welcomed Macron’s initiative, noting that France’s leadership could help galvanize broader EU support for stability in the Middle East. They emphasized that coordinated action is essential to prevent further escalation and to strengthen regional partnerships.

    The meeting in Cyprus highlighted France’s ongoing diplomatic engagement in the Middle East, with Macron positioning his country as a key partner in efforts to stabilize the region and foster closer ties with Europe.

  • WTO, ITC launch WEIDE Program in Jordan to empower women entrepreneurs

    WTO, ITC launch WEIDE Program in Jordan to empower women entrepreneurs

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — The World Trade Organization (WTO) has congratulated 46 women-led businesses in Jordan selected to benefit from the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund, a program designed to strengthen their participation in international trade through digital commerce. The announcement was made in Amman on April 23 at a launch event organized by the Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation (JEDCO), the program’s local partner.

    The beneficiaries were chosen from a pool of 469 applicants and will undergo a one-year program combining technical assistance, mentorship, access to international business networks, and financial support. The WEIDE Fund, launched in 2024 by the WTO Secretariat and the International Trade Center (ITC), is currently being implemented in four countries, including Jordan.

    WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, speaking virtually, said: “Digital trade is reshaping the global economy and creating new pathways for women entrepreneurs to participate in international trade. Ensuring women’s participation is essential for inclusive growth and the creation of even more jobs.”

    ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton emphasized that the program equips women-led businesses with both finance and digital skills to scale sustainably. Jordan’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply, Yarub Qudah, described the initiative as part of national efforts to enhance women’s economic participation, calling it “an economic necessity.”

    Dana AlZoubi, Acting CEO of JEDCO, noted that the program provides technical support, training, and grants totaling $1.4 million. Beneficiaries are divided into two tracks: the Discovery Track, offering $5,000 grants to early-stage businesses, and the Booster Track, providing up to $30,000 for advanced firms ready to expand globally.

    Ahead of the launch, participants attended training sessions covering business development, digital trade, financial management, and soft skills such as leadership and negotiation. A pitch competition selected Hanan Aqeel, Manager of Khayrat Alsahra, to represent Jordan at an international trade fair.

    The WEIDE Fund is supported by the United Arab Emirates, the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Legacy Fund, and the Kingdom of Bahrain. Besides Jordan, it is also active in the Dominican Republic, Mongolia, and Nigeria.

  • UNIFIL mourns Indonesian peacekeeper, cites UN Resolution 1701

    UNIFIL mourns Indonesian peacekeeper, cites UN Resolution 1701

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Corporal Rico Pramudia, an Indonesian peacekeeper who succumbed to injuries sustained in a projectile explosion at his base in Adchit Al Qusayr on March 29.

    Corporal Pramudia, 31, passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2026, at a hospital in Beirut after weeks of critical care.

    In a statement, UNIFIL extended condolences to his family, friends, the Indonesian Army, and the Government and people of Indonesia, describing the loss as tragic and irreparable.

    The mission called on all actors to uphold their obligations under international law and ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property at all times. UNIFIL stressed that deliberate attacks on peacekeepers constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701, warning that such acts may amount to war crimes.

    Adopted in August 2006, Resolution 1701 ended the 34-day conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. It called for a full cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, and the deployment of Lebanese armed forces alongside UNIFIL peacekeepers. The resolution also strengthened UNIFIL’s mandate, authorizing it to monitor hostilities, support humanitarian access, and assist the Lebanese government in securing its borders to prevent the flow of arms to non-state actors.

    UNIFIL reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in southern Lebanon, while honoring the sacrifice of Corporal Pramudia and the dedication of all peacekeepers serving under the UN flag.

  • EU unleashes sweeping 20th sanctions blitz on Russia, targets energy, banks, crypto and war machine

    EU unleashes sweeping 20th sanctions blitz on Russia, targets energy, banks, crypto and war machine

    BRUSSELS, Belgium (NPA) — The European Union has approved its 20th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting key sectors of its economy, including energy, finance, trade and the military-industrial complex, in response to Moscow’s ongoing war in Ukraine.

    The new measures, described as one of the most expansive in two years, include 120 additional individual listings and a broad range of economic restrictions aimed at weakening Russia’s war capacity and sustaining pressure on its leadership.

    Announcing the decision, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the bloc remains committed to supporting Ukraine while intensifying pressure on Russia to end the conflict and engage in meaningful peace negotiations.

    The sanctions package places significant emphasis on curbing Russia’s energy revenues, with new restrictions spanning oil exploration, refining and transport. The EU also moved to tighten measures against Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” adding 46 vessels to its sanctions list, bringing the total number of affected ships to 632.

    Additional measures include a future maritime services ban on Russian crude oil and petroleum products, coordinated with G7 partners, and a prohibition on transactions involving key Russian ports used to bypass existing restrictions.

    In the financial sector, the EU imposed transaction bans on 20 Russian banks and sanctioned several foreign financial institutions accused of facilitating sanctions evasion. The bloc also expanded its restrictions to cover cryptocurrency activities, banning Russian-based crypto platforms and targeting digital assets linked to the Russian economy.

    The package further tightens restrictions on Russia’s military-industrial complex, designating 58 companies and individuals involved in the production of military equipment, including drones. It also targets entities in third countries accused of supplying critical technologies to Russia’s defence sector.

    Trade measures were expanded, with new export bans covering industrial goods, chemicals and machinery, alongside import restrictions on raw materials and metals that generate revenue for Russia. The EU also activated an anti-circumvention mechanism to prevent re-export of sensitive goods through third countries.

    In a move to enhance accountability, the EU sanctioned individuals and entities linked to the alleged deportation and indoctrination of Ukrainian children, as well as those accused of appropriating Ukrainian cultural heritage and spreading state-backed propaganda.

    The sanctions package also extends measures against Belarus for its role in supporting Russia’s war efforts, including new listings tied to its military-industrial sector.

    The EU reaffirmed its continued support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, stressing its commitment to maintaining and increasing pressure on Russia until a just and lasting peace is achieved.