On April 5, 2025, over 1,000 ‘Hands Off’ protests erupted across the United States and Europe, with demonstrators denouncing US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s controversial policies. The protests, organized by groups like MoveOn and Women’s March, condemned deep cuts to Social Security, Medicaid, and education under the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led by Musk. Protesters carried signs calling Trump a “lunatic” and warning against authoritarian overreach. Rallies spread from Washington, D.C. to Berlin, showing growing global opposition to what activists call a “hostile takeover” of democracy. (CNN)

Birmingham faces a worsening public health crisis as a bin workers' strike drags on since January, intensified by the city council's plan to eliminate key roles amid financial strain. Over 17,000 tonnes of rubbish remain uncollected, leading to rat infestations and unbearable stench. Workers fear losing up to £8,000 annually due to downgrading of roles. Political tensions grow as Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer backs the council. Residents liken the city to a "war zone," demanding urgent resolution to end the standoff disrupting daily life. (PC: CNN)  

    U.S. Vice President JD Vance and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz will visit India in the third week of April 2025. Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance, will embark on a four-day heritage tour to Jaipur, Agra, and New Delhi, highlighting personal cultural ties. He is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will host a dinner in their honor. NSA Waltz will attend the India-US Forum in Delhi, holding key discussions on the TRUST initiative—focused on collaboration in defense, AI, semiconductors, energy, space, and emerging technologies.(PC: AP)

On April 5, 2025, over 1,200 anti-Trump protests occurred across the U.S., with thousands rallying in Washington, D.C.'s National Mall and demonstrations in all 50 states, as well as Canada and Mexico. Organized by more than 150 activist groups, attendees opposed President Donald Trump's rapid government overhaul, expansion of presidential authority, and support from billionaire Elon Musk. Key issues included immigration policies, education reforms, recent tariffs, and significant federal job cuts under Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has eliminated over 200,000 jobs, including 25% of the IRS workforce. Protesters expressed concerns over threats to Social Security and medical research cuts. Despite White House assurances that benefits like Social Security and Medicaid will be protected, critics argue that the administration's efforts are dismantling essential government institutions. (PC: Reuters)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticized the United States for its muted response to a recent Russian missile attack on his hometown, Kryvyi Rih, which killed 19 people, including nine children. Zelensky expressed disappointment that the U.S. Embassy's statement did not explicitly name Russia as the aggressor, remarking, "Such a strong country, such a strong people—and such a weak reaction." He emphasized the necessity of directly addressing Russia's actions and urged for increased international pressure to end the conflict. (PC: Le Monde)

Israeli air strikes across the Gaza Strip have killed at least 27 Palestinians, targeting both northern and southern regions. Among the casualties are civilians, including women and children. New video evidence reveals Israeli forces firing on clearly marked ambulances, resulting in the deaths of 15 medics and emergency workers. These attacks have intensified the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, drawing international condemnation and calls for an immediate ceasefire. The escalation underscores the urgent need for renewed diplomatic efforts to address the ongoing conflict and prevent further loss of life. (PC: The Guardian & Mint)

President Donald Trump has intensified his defense of the ongoing trade war with China, asserting that China is suffering more than the U.S. He described the situation as an "economic revolution," emphasizing the return of jobs and businesses to America. Trump acknowledged the challenges ahead but urged Americans to "hang tough," promising a historic outcome. These statements follow China's announcement of a 34% tariff on U.S. imports, a retaliatory move against Trump's similar tariff on Chinese goods. The escalating tariffs have raised concerns about a potential global recession, with U.S. stock markets experiencing significant declines. (PC: India Today)

As of April 5, 2025, the death toll from Myanmar's powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake has risen to over 3,354, with 4,500+ injured and 220 missing. The quake struck central Myanmar on March 28, causing massive destruction, especially in Mandalay, where hospitals, homes, and infrastructure were severely damaged. The UN has called the scale of devastation “staggering” and is urging the international community to provide urgent humanitarian aid. Aid delivery is being hampered by ongoing conflict and restrictions from Myanmar’s military government, especially in opposition-held areas, raising fears of a worsening crisis amid blocked relief access and growing displacement. (PC: AFP)

An Indian national was tragically stabbed to death on April 4, 2025, near Lalonde Street in Rockland, about 40 km east of Ottawa, Canada. The Ontario Provincial Police responded to the incident around 3 p.m. and have since taken a suspect into custody. However, details about the victim and suspect have not been officially released. The Indian Embassy in Canada expressed deep grief and is working closely with local authorities and community organizations to support the victim’s family. The investigation is ongoing as officials determine the motive and nature of the fatal attack. (PC: The Daily Guardian)

A Russian Iskander-M missile armed with a cluster warhead struck Kryvyi Rih, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hometown, on April 4, killing 14 civilians, including six children, and injuring over 50. The attack destroyed residential buildings and heightened international condemnation. President Zelensky called the strike a brutal reminder of Russia’s disregard for peace, amid ongoing ceasefire discussions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Washington will not tolerate any stalling tactics by Moscow in ceasefire talks, urging concrete steps from Russia toward a genuine resolution. The incident underscores rising tensions and humanitarian concerns in the ongoing war. (PC: CNN)