Trump Archives - Page 2 of 16

German Chancellor Merz calls state election a ‘disaster’ for his party but vows to stay on

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has described a damaging state election result as a “disaster” for his conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), while insisting that he will remain in office and continue with his government’s reform plans. The setback came in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, where exit projections showed the CDU receiving only about 5% of the vote. That marked the party’s weakest result in a German state election since the Federal Republic was founded after the Second World War. The Alternative for Germany (AfD) emerged as the strongest party, with roughly 37% of the vote, narrowly ahead of the centre-left Social Democrats. The results also brought difficulties for the CDU in Berlin, where the party was projected to finish behind the left-wing Die Linke. The outcomes came only two weeks after the AfD secured a major victory in Saxony-Anhalt, adding to pressure on Merz and his government. Merz acknowledged the seriousness of the result but rejected suggestions that he should step aside. He said Germany’s economic and political challenges made reforms more necessary rather than less urgent. His government has been pursuing measures involving economic growth, pensions, taxation and reducing bureaucracy. The chancellor also defended his position as CDU leader and said he intended to continue serving as Germany’s chancellor. The election results are likely to fuel debate inside the CDU over its political strategy and response to the growing strength of the AfD. For Merz, the immediate challenge will be maintaining support within his party and coalition while delivering on promised reforms amid voter dissatisfaction and increasing political competition.

US marks 25th anniversary of 9/11 with tribute to victims of attacks

Afham1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

The United States is marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with ceremonies honoring the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives and remembering one of the darkest days in the nation’s modern history. Memorial events are being held at key locations connected to the attacks, including New York City, the Pentagon and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Families of victims, survivors, first responders and government officials are gathering to pay tribute and reflect on the lasting impact of September 11. In New York, the names of those killed in the attacks are being read during a solemn ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Moments of silence mark the times when the hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center towers and when the towers collapsed. The anniversary also highlights the extraordinary courage of firefighters, police officers, emergency workers and ordinary citizens who responded to the attacks. Many first responders later died or suffered serious illnesses linked to their work at Ground Zero and other disaster sites. Twenty-five years later, the attacks continue to influence American society, national security and foreign policy. The events led to major changes in airport security, intelligence operations and counterterrorism policies, as well as the long wars that followed in Afghanistan and Iraq. For younger Americans who were born after 2001, the anniversary provides an opportunity to learn about an event they did not personally experience. Schools, museums and memorial organizations are preserving firsthand accounts from survivors and families so that the history is not forgotten. As the United States observes the 25th anniversary, the central message remains one of remembrance, resilience and unity. Families continue to mourn their loved ones, while the nation honors those who died and recognizes the lasting sacrifices made in the aftermath of the attacks.

Germany’s Merz attacks AfD in stormy debate after far-right election win

Afham1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz launched a fierce attack on the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) during a stormy parliamentary debate on Wednesday, just days after the party secured a major election victory in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt. The confrontation between Merz and AfD co-leader Alice Weidel came during a heated Bundestag debate marked by repeated interruptions and angry exchanges. Weidel opened the debate by accusing Merz’s coalition government of “total failure” and argued that voters had demanded a major political change. Merz responded forcefully, describing the AfD as a “destructive force” and insisting that the party would struggle to win an outright majority in Germany with its current policies. His comments followed the AfD’s strong performance in Saxony-Anhalt, where it won almost 44% of the vote, while Merz’s conservative CDU suffered a major setback. One of the main points of Merz’s attack was the AfD’s policy of “remigration,” which refers to plans involving the removal of certain migrants from Germany. Merz accused the party of promoting policies that could amount to ethnic cleansing and warned that aggressive migration policies could damage industries that depend heavily on migrant workers, including healthcare, hospitality and skilled trades. Merz also criticized the AfD’s position on Russia and Ukraine, arguing that its foreign-policy approach could harm German interests. The AfD, meanwhile, has continued to oppose Germany’s support for Ukraine and has called for closer relations with Moscow. The election result has intensified pressure on Merz and his coalition. Despite the AfD’s victory, mainstream German parties continue to maintain a political “firewall” against cooperation with the far-right party. The confrontation highlights Germany’s growing political divide as the AfD gains support and Merz faces increasing pressure to respond to voters’ concerns over migration, the economy and government performance.

Israeli strikes in southern Lebanese village kill 12

Afham1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Israeli strikes in a village in southern Lebanon have reportedly killed 12 people, adding to growing concerns over renewed violence along the Israel-Lebanon border. The strikes caused casualties and damage in the area, according to reports, as tensions between Israel and armed groups in the region remain high. Southern Lebanon has repeatedly been affected by cross-border hostilities, with civilians facing the greatest risks as fighting intensifies. Villages and towns near the border have experienced airstrikes, shelling and displacement during periods of heightened conflict. The latest strikes have raised fears that continued military action could further destabilize the region and increase pressure on already vulnerable communities. Emergency responders and local authorities have been working to assess the damage and assist those affected. The incident comes amid wider regional tensions involving Israel and several armed groups. Any escalation in southern Lebanon could have broader consequences, particularly if attacks and retaliatory strikes increase across the border. Lebanese officials and local communities have called for greater protection of civilians and efforts to prevent further escalation. International organizations have also repeatedly warned about the humanitarian consequences of continued violence in densely populated areas. The deaths underline the risks faced by civilians living in conflict zones, where military operations can result in significant loss of life and destruction of homes and infrastructure. As the situation develops, attention is focused on whether the latest violence will remain localized or contribute to a wider escalation between Israel and forces operating in southern Lebanon. Further developments are expected as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the strikes and assess the full extent of the casualties and damage.

Iran says US strike killed four at wedding in ‘war crime’ as US denies targeting civilians

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Iran has accused the United States of committing a “war crime” after a US strike reportedly hit a residential building where a wedding celebration was taking place in southern Iran. Iranian authorities said at least four people were killed, including children, while dozens more were injured in the attack in Kuhestak, in Sirik County, Hormozgan province. The incident occurred amid renewed fighting between the United States and Iran, with American forces carrying out strikes against Iranian targets and Tehran responding with attacks on US positions in the region. The escalation has raised fresh concerns about civilian safety as military operations continue around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials said the strike struck a home during a wedding gathering and described the victims as civilians. Images released by the Iranian Red Crescent showed damage to the building and injured people, including children. The organisation has called for an independent investigation and appealed to the International Criminal Court for legal action. The United States, however, has denied deliberately targeting civilians. US Central Command said American forces do not target civilians and indicated that reports of civilian deaths were being examined. US officials have maintained that their military operations are directed at military and strategic targets rather than civilian gatherings. The exact circumstances surrounding the strike remain disputed. Reports indicate that a communications facility near the residential area was also hit, while weapons experts examining debris have identified fragments consistent with a US-made precision missile. Further investigation will be needed to determine the intended target and whether the attack violated international humanitarian law. The deaths have intensified already severe tensions between Washington and Tehran. Iran has vowed a strong response, while continued military exchanges threaten to widen the conflict and increase civilian casualties across the region.

Nepal calls for ‘global effort’ to address climate change after devastating flash floods

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Nepal has called on the international community to take stronger collective action against climate change after devastating flash floods caused widespread destruction in the Himalayan nation. The disaster has highlighted the growing vulnerability of mountain communities as glaciers melt and extreme weather becomes increasingly unpredictable. The recent catastrophe was triggered by a massive collapse of ice and rock in the Himalayan region, unleashing destructive floods that swept through communities, damaged roads and bridges, and severely affected critical infrastructure. Hundreds of people have been killed, while many others remain missing as rescue and recovery operations continue. Nepal’s leaders have stressed that the country contributes only a tiny share of global greenhouse gas emissions but faces some of the most serious consequences of a warming planet. The government has urged nations around the world to work together to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem and reduce the risks posed by melting glaciers and unstable mountain environments. The tragedy has also renewed calls for greater international cooperation in climate research, early-warning systems, disaster preparedness and the sharing of real-time environmental data across borders. Because Himalayan rivers and glaciers affect several countries, experts say regional and global collaboration is essential to protect vulnerable populations downstream. As Nepal begins the difficult task of rebuilding, the disaster serves as a powerful warning that climate change is not a distant threat. For communities living beneath the world’s highest mountains, its consequences are already being felt. Nepal’s appeal for a global effort reflects a growing demand for meaningful climate action, stronger adaptation measures and support for countries suffering the harshest impacts of a crisis

Iran faces ‘greatest financial offensive ever’, says US treasury secretary

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Iran is facing what US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has described as “the single greatest financial offensive ever marshalled against an adversary,” as Washington intensifies its economic pressure on Tehran. The new campaign signals a major escalation in the Trump administration’s efforts to isolate Iran and cut off the financial resources supporting its government. Bessent described the strategy as an “economic D-Day,” aimed at severing Iran’s economic lifelines and increasing pressure on the country’s leadership. The United States has focused its attention not only on Iran’s domestic economy but also on foreign companies and countries that continue to conduct significant trade with Tehran. The measures could include expanded secondary sanctions, potentially forcing international businesses to choose between access to the US financial system and continued economic ties with Iran. The announcement comes at a time when Iran’s economy is already under severe strain. Its currency has fallen to record lows, while inflation and the wider economic impact of the continuing conflict have added further pressure on ordinary citizens. US officials believe greater financial isolation could weaken Iran’s ability to sustain its current policies and potentially reduce the need for further military action. However, Tehran has strongly rejected the US approach, arguing that decades of sanctions have failed to force Iran into submission. Iranian officials have warned of retaliation against countries that cooperate with Washington’s new measures, raising concerns about further instability across the Middle East and possible disruption to global energy markets. As tensions continue to rise, the economic confrontation between Washington and Tehran could have consequences far beyond the two countries, affecting international trade, oil supplies and diplomatic relations across the region.

Trump pauses new tariffs on Canada for three days, saying deal close

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

US President Donald Trump has paused planned new tariffs on Canadian imports for three days, saying the United States and Canada are close to reaching a trade agreement. The temporary suspension came just hours before the proposed 50% tariffs were due to take effect. Trump said the two countries had made significant progress toward a deal and that the additional time would allow officials to finalize the agreement. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also confirmed that substantial progress had been made, although Canadian officials indicated that important issues still need to be resolved. The proposed tariffs would affect around $20 billion worth of Canadian goods, raising concerns among businesses on both sides of the border. Industries including dairy, alcohol, lumber and other sectors have been closely watching the negotiations because higher tariffs could increase costs and disrupt established supply chains. The latest development represents another attempt by Washington and Ottawa to prevent their trade dispute from escalating. The United States and Canada maintain one of the world’s largest bilateral trading relationships, making tariff decisions particularly important for manufacturers, exporters and consumers. Trump has also suggested that the long-discussed Keystone XL oil pipeline could potentially return to the negotiating table, adding another economic issue to the broader discussions. For now, the three-day pause provides both governments with a limited window to complete negotiations. If an agreement is finalized, it could prevent the immediate introduction of the steep tariffs and ease pressure on Canadian exporters. However, with several major issues still under discussion, the outcome remains uncertain.

UK ‘supports Ukraine 100%’, Burnham says, after Russia’s drone warning

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its strong backing for Ukraine after Russia warned that British military support and the supply of drones could further escalate the war. Andy Burnham, the UK’s prime minister, said Britain supports Ukraine “100%” as tensions continued to rise between London and Moscow. His comments came after Russia accused the UK of contributing to the escalation of the conflict through its military assistance to Kyiv. The dispute comes as drones have become an increasingly important part of the war. Ukraine has relied heavily on unmanned systems for battlefield operations, surveillance and long-range strikes, while Russia has also expanded its use of drones against Ukrainian targets. Britain has been one of Ukraine’s leading military supporters since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. The UK has committed substantial military assistance, including drones and air-defence equipment, and has repeatedly said that Ukraine must be able to defend itself against Russian aggression. The latest warning from Moscow highlights the growing confrontation between Russia and Western countries supporting Kyiv. Russia has repeatedly criticised British and other European military assistance, arguing that weapons supplied to Ukraine are prolonging the conflict. For Britain, however, support for Ukraine remains a central part of its European security policy. The government has continued to emphasise the importance of Ukraine’s sovereignty and its ability to resist Russian attacks. The exchange also comes amid continuing uncertainty over the future course of the war. With drone warfare expanding rapidly on both sides, military technology and defence cooperation are becoming increasingly important to Ukraine’s strategy. Burnham’s comments signal that London does not intend to retreat from its backing for Kyiv despite Moscow’s warnings. The development could further underline the increasingly tense relationship between Britain and Russia as the war continues.

Trump threatens to bomb US ally Oman if it ‘gets in the way’ over Iran deal

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

US President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Oman if the Gulf ally interferes with Washington’s efforts to reach an agreement with Iran, escalating tensions across the Middle East. Trump made the warning during a Fox News interview on Monday, saying the United States would attack Oman if it “gets in the way.” The threat comes as Oman plays an important diplomatic role between Washington and Tehran. Oman has been involved in discussions aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes. The waterway has faced severe disruption during the conflict, affecting global energy supplies and shipping. Trump’s remarks followed reports that Iran and Oman were moving toward an understanding over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The United States has opposed arrangements that could undermine its objectives in the region, while Oman has traditionally maintained relations with both Iran and the United States. The comments also came as a 60-day US-Iran negotiation period expired without a breakthrough. Trump has continued to demand that Iran surrender, while Tehran has maintained its position amid ongoing tensions. Oman’s role is particularly sensitive because the country has historically served as a diplomatic backchannel between the United States and Iran. Any direct confrontation involving Oman could significantly widen the conflict and create further uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz. The latest warning has therefore raised concerns about the future of US relations with a long-standing Gulf partner, while adding another layer of risk to already fragile efforts to resolve the Iran conflict.