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Putin says there is ‘no point’ meeting Zelensky over ending Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed a proposal from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a face-to-face meeting aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, saying he currently sees “no point” in holding direct talks. The remarks come as diplomatic efforts to find a resolution to the conflict remain stalled after more than four years of fighting. Zelensky recently sent an open letter urging Putin to meet on neutral ground and discuss a pathway to peace. The Ukrainian leader proposed measures including a ceasefire during negotiations and other confidence-building steps intended to reduce tensions between the two countries. However, speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin rejected the idea, arguing that meaningful negotiations should be based on detailed agreements prepared by experts rather than public appeals. He stated that long-term solutions are needed and suggested that lower-level negotiators should first work out the framework for any future settlement. The Kremlin leader maintained that Russia’s military campaign is continuing and reiterated his position that any peace agreement would require significant compromises from Ukraine. Kyiv, meanwhile, has accused Moscow of prolonging the conflict by refusing to engage in genuine negotiations. The exchange highlights the deep divisions that continue to block progress toward a peace deal. While both sides publicly express support for ending the war, they remain far apart on key issues including territory, security guarantees, and the future political status of occupied regions. With fighting continuing along the front lines and diplomatic channels producing little progress, prospects for a direct meeting between Putin and Zelensky appear increasingly uncertain. For now, the possibility of a breakthrough in peace talks remains remote as both governments maintain their existing positions.

Gaza City hospitals say several killed in strike, as Israel targets Hamas leaders

Afham1 week ago1 week ago03 mins

Hospitals in Gaza City reported that several people were killed following a new round of air strikes as Israel intensified operations targeting senior leaders of Hamas. The strikes came amid escalating violence in the region, with civilians once again caught in the middle of the conflict. Medical officials in Gaza said emergency teams rushed wounded residents to overcrowded hospitals after explosions hit residential areas overnight. Witnesses described scenes of destruction, damaged buildings, and panic among families seeking shelter. Local authorities claimed that women and children were among the casualties, though exact figures remain unclear. The Israeli military stated that the operation was aimed at Hamas command centers and senior operatives believed to be coordinating attacks against Israeli targets. According to Israeli officials, intelligence reports identified several strategic locations allegedly linked to militant activity inside Gaza City. Israel has repeatedly argued that Hamas operates within densely populated civilian areas, making military operations more complicated. The latest escalation follows weeks of rising tensions, including rocket fire from Gaza and Israeli retaliatory strikes. International organizations and humanitarian agencies have expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, where hospitals are struggling with shortages of medicine, fuel, and medical supplies. Global leaders have urged restraint and called for efforts to prevent further civilian casualties. The United Nations renewed demands for humanitarian access and protection for noncombatants trapped in the conflict zone. The ongoing fighting has deepened fears of a broader regional crisis, while diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire continue. Residents in Gaza City remain uncertain about what comes next as air raid sirens, explosions, and emergency evacuations continue across the territory.

At least 82 killed in Chinese coal mine explosion

Afham2 weeks ago2 weeks ago03 mins

A devastating coal mine explosion in northern China has killed at least 82 people, making it one of the country’s deadliest mining disasters in recent years. The blast occurred late Friday at a large underground coal facility in Shanxi province, a region heavily dependent on coal production and mining operations. Rescue teams worked through the night to search for survivors trapped beneath the surface as thick smoke and unstable tunnels hampered emergency efforts. Chinese state media reported that several miners were still missing, while dozens of injured workers were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the explosion, with early reports suggesting that a buildup of gas inside the mine may have triggered the deadly blast. Safety inspectors and government officials have been dispatched to the site as pressure grows over working conditions in China’s mining sector. Witnesses described scenes of panic as families gathered outside the mine waiting for updates about their loved ones. Emergency crews used heavy machinery and ventilation systems in an attempt to clear dangerous gases from the tunnels. Local officials vowed to hold those responsible accountable if safety violations are discovered. China’s mining industry has long faced criticism over inadequate safety standards despite repeated government promises to improve conditions. While accidents have declined in recent years due to tighter regulations, coal mines remain among the country’s most hazardous workplaces. Experts say many smaller or high-output mines continue to prioritize production over worker safety. The tragedy has reignited national debate over industrial safety and oversight in China’s energy sector. Messages of condolence poured in across social media, while President Xi Jinping called for “all-out rescue efforts” and stronger enforcement of mining safety laws to prevent similar disasters in the future.

Ebola has tortured us’: Fear grips eastern DR Congo as deadly virus spreads

Afham3 weeks ago3 weeks ago03 mins

Fear and anxiety are spreading across eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo as communities confront another deadly outbreak of Ebola. Health officials report rising infections in several areas, with overwhelmed hospitals and frightened residents struggling to contain the fast-moving virus. Families in affected villages say the outbreak has revived painful memories of previous Ebola crises that devastated the region over the past decade. Residents in eastern Congo describe scenes of panic as health workers in protective suits move through communities tracing contacts and isolating suspected cases. Many people fear visiting clinics, worried they could become infected or separated from loved ones. “Ebola has tortured us,” one local resident said, reflecting the deep emotional and economic toll the disease continues to inflict on already vulnerable communities. Authorities and international aid agencies are intensifying emergency measures, including vaccination campaigns, border screenings, and public awareness drives. However, insecurity caused by armed groups in eastern Congo has complicated response efforts, making it difficult for medical teams to safely reach remote villages. Health experts warn that misinformation and distrust of authorities could further accelerate the spread of the virus if communities avoid treatment centers. The outbreak has also disrupted trade, schools, and daily life across parts of the region. Markets are quieter, travel has slowed, and many families are limiting social gatherings out of fear of infection. Neighboring countries remain on alert as officials monitor possible cross-border transmission. Despite the growing crisis, health authorities stress that Ebola can be contained through rapid testing, vaccination, isolation of patients, and community cooperation. International organizations are continuing to send medical supplies and specialists to support Congo’s response as fears rise that the outbreak could worsen in the coming weeks

WHO declares Ebola outbreak in DR Congo an international emergency

Afham3 weeks ago3 weeks ago03 mins

The World Health Organization has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighboring Uganda a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern” after a sharp rise in suspected infections and deaths linked to the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus. Health officials say more than 300 suspected cases and around 80 deaths have been reported, with the outbreak centered in Ituri province in eastern Congo. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the emergency declaration is intended to mobilize international support, funding, and coordination to stop the spread before it worsens. The organization clarified that the outbreak does not yet qualify as a pandemic, but neighboring countries remain at high risk because of cross-border movement and weak healthcare infrastructure in affected regions. The Bundibugyo strain is especially concerning because there are currently no approved vaccines or targeted treatments for it, unlike the more common Ebola-Zaire strain. Medical experts fear the true number of infections could be significantly higher because many suspected cases are still awaiting confirmation. Cases have already appeared outside the outbreak epicenter, including in Uganda and the Congolese city of Goma, raising fears of wider regional transmission. Health workers are intensifying contact tracing, screening, and isolation measures, while WHO has urged countries not to close borders, warning that travel restrictions could push people into unmonitored crossings and make containment more difficult. The outbreak is unfolding in a region already affected by armed conflict and mass displacement, complicating response efforts. Global health agencies, including the Africa CDC, are now coordinating emergency responses as fears grow that the outbreak could expand further across Central and East Africa if rapid containment measures fail.

Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship not start of pandemic, UN health agency says

Afham1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

The World Health Organization has said a recent hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship should not be viewed as the beginning of a global pandemic, seeking to calm public fears after several passengers fell ill during a voyage in Asia. Health officials stressed that hantavirus infections are rare and are typically spread through exposure to rodents or their droppings rather than through sustained human-to-human transmission. According to the agency, investigators are examining sanitation conditions aboard the vessel after passengers reported flu-like symptoms including fever, fatigue, and respiratory complications. Several individuals were hospitalized for observation, while close contacts were monitored as a precaution. Authorities emphasized that there is currently no evidence the virus is spreading widely among travelers or communities beyond the ship. Hantavirus can cause severe respiratory disease in humans, but outbreaks are generally localized. Experts noted that unlike highly contagious viruses such as COVID-19, hantavirus does not usually spread easily between people. Most infections occur when individuals inhale particles contaminated by infected rodents. Public health officials therefore believe the incident can be contained through isolation measures, sanitation procedures, and medical monitoring. Cruise operators have reportedly increased cleaning operations and health screenings as investigations continue. Travelers were also advised to maintain hygiene precautions and report symptoms immediately if they experience fever or breathing difficulties after recent travel. The UN health agency urged the public not to panic or spread misinformation online, warning that exaggerated claims about a “new pandemic” could create unnecessary fear. Officials added that global surveillance systems remain active and that international health authorities are coordinating closely to monitor developments surrounding the outbreak.

US says it has attacked Iranian-flagged ship as Israel launches air strike on Beirut

Afham1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

The United States has confirmed that it carried out an attack on an Iranian-flagged vessel in a significant escalation of tensions across the Middle East, while almost simultaneously, Israel launched a fresh airstrike on the Lebanese capital, Beirut. The developments underscore a rapidly intensifying regional crisis involving multiple flashpoints. According to officials from the United States Department of Defense, the targeted ship was believed to be involved in activities that posed a security threat, though specific operational details remain limited. The strike marks a notable expansion of direct US actions against assets linked to Iran amid ongoing maritime tensions in key shipping corridors. Meanwhile, Israel confirmed it conducted an airstrike on what it described as militant infrastructure in Beirut. Lebanese sources reported damage in parts of the city, raising concerns about civilian safety and the potential for further escalation. The strike is part of Israel’s broader campaign against groups it accuses of receiving Iranian backing. The dual developments highlight the increasingly interconnected nature of regional conflicts, where actions at sea and in urban centers are shaping a wider geopolitical confrontation. Analysts warn that the involvement of both US and Israeli forces in separate but related operations could provoke retaliatory responses from Iran or its allied groups. International reactions have begun to emerge, with calls for restraint from several global actors concerned about the risk of a broader war. The situation remains fluid, with military readiness reportedly heightened across multiple countries in the region. As tensions rise, the possibility of further strikes or countermeasures cannot be ruled out, making this one of the most volatile moments in Middle Eastern geopolitics in recent months.

Iran says US has responded to its latest peace proposal

Afham1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Iran has confirmed that the United States has responded to its latest peace proposal, signaling a fragile but ongoing diplomatic exchange amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. The development comes after Tehran submitted a new multi-point plan—reportedly a 14-point framework—through intermediaries, aiming to end hostilities and ease the standoff that has disrupted global energy markets. According to recent reports, Iranian officials indicated that Washington has reviewed and reacted to the proposal, though details of the U.S. response remain limited. The exchange follows weeks of indirect negotiations, often facilitated by third parties such as Pakistan, highlighting the absence of direct diplomatic engagement between the two sides. U.S. President Donald Trump has taken a cautious and skeptical stance. While acknowledging receipt of Iran’s proposal, he has suggested that the terms may not be acceptable, warning that military options—including renewed airstrikes—remain on the table if negotiations fail. Reports indicate Trump believes Iran has “not yet paid a big enough price,” underscoring the administration’s hardline posture. Iran’s proposal is believed to include key demands such as lifting U.S. sanctions, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and reducing military pressure in the region. In return, Tehran has signaled willingness to engage in phased de-escalation, though it insists on preserving its strategic and nuclear interests. Despite this exchange, the situation remains volatile. Ongoing incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and continued military threats from both sides illustrate how fragile the diplomatic process is. Analysts note that while both countries appear interested in avoiding prolonged conflict, deep mistrust and conflicting demands continue to hinder a breakthrough. In summary, while Iran says the U.S. has responded to its latest peace proposal, the path to a comprehensive agreement remains uncertain, with diplomacy and military pressure unfolding simultaneously.

Trump repeats that he is ‘not happy’ with Iran as deadline to seek approval for war looms

Afham1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated that he is “not happy” with Iran as a కీల moment approaches in Washington: the legal deadline requiring congressional approval for continued military involvement. The statement underscores rising tension between diplomatic efforts and domestic legal constraints tied to the ongoing conflict. Trump’s dissatisfaction centers on Iran’s latest proposals to end hostilities, which he has described as unacceptable and insufficient. According to recent reports, he believes Tehran’s leadership remains divided and unwilling to meet core U.S. demands, particularly on abandoning nuclear ambitions. Despite indirect negotiations through mediators, progress has stalled, leaving the situation in a fragile ceasefire rather than a lasting resolution. At the same time, the administration faces pressure under the War Powers Resolution, which mandates that a president must seek congressional authorization within 60 days of initiating military action. That deadline is now looming, placing Trump in a politically sensitive position. Rather than seeking approval, the White House argues that hostilities have effectively “terminated” due to an earlier ceasefire, a legal interpretation widely disputed by lawmakers and experts. Congress remains deeply divided. Efforts by Democrats to force a vote on ending or authorizing the war have repeatedly failed, while many Republicans continue to back Trump’s approach. This impasse increases the likelihood that the deadline will pass without clear legislative action, further intensifying constitutional questions over executive war powers. Meanwhile, Trump has kept military options open, signaling that further strikes remain possible if Iran does not shift its stance. His remarks suggest a dual-track strategy: maintaining pressure through both diplomacy and the threat of force. With no breakthrough in negotiations and legal uncertainty mounting, the coming days are critical. Whether the administration seeks authorization, ignores the deadline, or escalates tensions will significantly shape the trajectory of the U.S.–Iran conflict and broader regional stability.

Trump attempted assassination Washington dinner

Suspect charged with attempted assassination of Trump at Washington dinner

Afham1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

A suspect has been formally charged with the attempted assassination of former U.S. President Donald Trump after a dramatic security breach during a high-profile Washington dinner event. The incident took place at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner held at the Washington Hilton, where Trump and several senior officials were in attendance. Federal prosecutors identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from California. Authorities allege he arrived in Washington days before the event carrying multiple weapons, including a shotgun, handgun, and knives. Investigators say Allen attempted to force his way past a security checkpoint before being confronted by Secret Service officers. During the confrontation, shots were fired and at least one Secret Service officer was struck in the chest. Officials said the officer’s ballistic vest prevented serious injury. Trump was immediately removed from the venue by security personnel as guests and staff took cover inside the ballroom. Allen now faces multiple federal charges, including attempted assassination of a former president, illegal transportation of firearms, and use of a weapon during a violent crime. If convicted on the most serious count, he could face life imprisonment. A judge ordered him held in custody pending further court proceedings. Investigators are also reviewing writings and communications allegedly linked to the suspect to determine motive and whether others were involved. Officials described the case as active and said additional charges remain possible. The incident has reignited debate over political violence and security surrounding major U.S. public events. Despite the breach, authorities stated that rapid intervention by security teams likely prevented a far more serious outcome.