Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that intelligence reports have identified at least 155 Chinese nationals fighting alongside Russian forces amid the latest spring offensive. Some were allegedly recruited through social media and online platforms. Ukraine has captured several individuals during recent clashes in the east, prompting Kyiv to summon China’s ambassador for an explanation. While Ukraine stressed there’s no proof of direct Chinese government involvement, the revelation adds strain to already delicate diplomatic ties. China responded by saying it is investigating the matter and reiterated its neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. (PC: CNN)  

Russia claimed on April 9 that it destroyed 158 Ukrainian drones in a major overnight attack, with 29 shot down over the Rostov region. The Russian defence ministry reported evacuations from 48 apartments in Aksay and temporary airport closures across southern Russia. Most drones were intercepted over Krasnodar (69) and North Ossetia–Alania (15). No injuries were reported. Ukraine did not comment, but Kyiv says such attacks target infrastructure in response to Russia’s bombings. US President Donald Trump has pushed for a ceasefire, with the US announcing agreements in March aiming to halt strikes on energy infrastructure in the ongoing war. (PC: NDTV)

King Charles and Queen Camilla met Pope Francis at the Vatican on Wednesday during their four-day state visit to Italy. The private audience, confirmed earlier that morning, included an exchange of gifts and warm wishes. The couple were "deeply touched" by the Pope's remarks on their 20th wedding anniversary. Buckingham Palace expressed joy at the Pope being well enough to host them following his recent hospital stay. Earlier, King Charles addressed the Italian Parliament and met Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Queen Camilla visited a school and ice cream shop, receiving anniversary cards from students. Discussions continue for an official papal visit. (PC: X/@RoyalFamily)

China has called on the United States to “meet halfway” after Donald Trump raised tariffs on Chinese goods to 125%, up from 104%. China hit back with 84% retaliatory tariffs but kept its door open to talks. Trump's 90-day tariff pause for other countries calmed global markets, with Asian, European, and US stocks surging. China's Commerce Ministry warned the move could “severely” hurt the global economy. Trump insisted, “A deal's going to be made with China,” while China's leadership considers new stimulus. Japan and ASEAN nations welcomed the pause but urged Washington to review tariffs on their exports. (PC: NDTV)

Freed Israeli hostages are urging a new ceasefire to rescue 59 people still held in Gaza by Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Survivors like soldier Liri Albag and Eli Sharabi have spoken out at rallies and in global forums, despite personal trauma. “Part of us is still in Gaza,” said Omer Wenkert, reflecting collective grief. The initial truce in January freed 25 Israelis in exchange for 1,800 Palestinians but broke down in March as Israel resumed strikes. Hamas seeks to restore the original framework, while Israel wants phased exchanges. Ex-hostage Keith Siegel credited Donald Trump for past breakthroughs and urged urgent diplomacy. (PC: Reuters)

US President Donald Trump has escalated the trade war by raising tariffs on Chinese imports to 125%, citing China's "lack of respect." In response, Beijing imposed 84% tariffs on US goods and lodged a WTO complaint, calling US actions "bullying." China hinted at restricting rare earth mineral exports and possibly banning American films or targeting Apple and Tesla. The Communist Party’s People’s Daily called the tariffs a “strategic opportunity” to boost domestic consumption. Beijing warned that if the US continues its aggressive trade stance, China will “fight to the end,” shifting from dialogue to direct confrontation. (PC: Reuters)

Global financial markets rebounded after US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on new tariffs for countries other than China. The decision helped indices in Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea recover losses, following Wall Street's rally. However, Trump’s 125% tariff hike on Chinese goods took effect, intensifying the trade war. Trump accused Beijing of showing “a lack of respect.” In retaliation, China imposed 84% tariffs on all US imports and vowed not to back down. Trump's universal 10% tariff on other countries remains. Analysts now question how long China can endure such economic pressure amid rising global uncertainty. (PC: Getty Images)

In a remarkable market surge, U.S. stocks recorded one of their best performances in decades following former President Donald Trump's announcement of a 90-day pause on tariffs. The S&P 500 soared, marking its third-best day since 1940, signaling investor optimism over eased trade tensions. The move temporarily halted escalating tariffs with China, prompting strong rebounds across global markets. Key indices such as the Dow Jones and Nasdaq also posted significant gains, reflecting renewed confidence. Analysts highlighted the pause as a strategic breather in the ongoing trade war, offering markets relief and driving investor enthusiasm. ( PC: Republic )

US stocks soared after President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on tariffs for over 75 countries that did not retaliate against recent US trade measures. The move sent the S&P 500 up 7%, with the Dow and Nasdaq also posting major gains. However, Trump confirmed China is excluded from the pause, with tariffs on Chinese imports rising sharply to 125%. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the pause was intended to push countries toward negotiations. In response, China hiked its retaliatory tariffs to 84%, and the European Union announced duties of 10%–25% on $24 billion worth of US goods. (PC: Reuters, Getty Images)

A US judge has ordered the White House to let Associated Press (AP) journalists attend presidential events again. The White House had blocked AP after the news agency refused to call the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America." Judge Trevor McFadden ruled that the ban violated the First Amendment, which protects free speech. The AP welcomed the decision, calling it a victory for press freedom. Despite the ruling, AP journalists were still blocked from a Trump event on Tuesday night. The White House has until Sunday to appeal the decision. (PC: Getty Images)