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Global Reactions to Trump’s Tariffs: Economic Blow or Strategic Advantage?

Global Reactions to Trump’s Tariffs: Economic Blow or Strategic Advantage?

Key Economies Respond to the US President’s Trade Measures and Their Potential Consequences

The latest tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump are set to have far-reaching effects on international trade. While the European Union and other US allies have strongly opposed the move, China may view it as a strategic opportunity.

Europe Seeks Retaliation Without Escalation
By Katya Adler, Europe Editor, Brussels

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that the new tariffs would bring severe disruptions worldwide. She stated that navigating through the economic turmoil caused by these measures would be extremely difficult.

The European Union has vowed to safeguard its industries, with sectors like German automobiles, Italian luxury goods, and French wines among the most affected. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for an urgent meeting with business leaders to discuss countermeasures.

As the world’s largest single market, the EU has the power to impose retaliatory measures on American products, including targeting major technology firms. However, officials stress that their objective is to push the US back to the negotiating table rather than escalate tensions further.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her disapproval of the tariffs but signalled a willingness to engage in diplomatic efforts to reach a resolution.

China Sees an Opportunity Amid the Trade War
By Stephen McDonell, China Correspondent, Beijing

While the 54% tariff on Chinese imports will significantly impact businesses, Beijing is also using Trump’s policies to reinforce its global positioning.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has been presenting China as a leader in free trade and multilateralism, in contrast to the US’s more protectionist stance. Recent high-profile meetings between Xi and top global business executives, including European leaders, have bolstered this narrative.

China’s state media has swiftly condemned the new US tariffs, portraying them as evidence of American instability and self-interest. Trump’s aggressive trade stance could unintentionally strengthen China’s economic partnerships, as nations seeking stability may turn to Beijing.

Mixed Reaction in the UK: Relief but No Celebration
By Chris Mason, Political Editor, London

UK officials had anticipated that Britain would not face the worst of Trump’s new tariffs, but they were unprepared for the specifics. Now, with a 10% duty imposed on UK exports, the response is a mix of relief and concern.

Although Britain avoided the harshest tariffs, the impact on industries such as automotive manufacturing remains a major worry. The broader effects on global trade could also disrupt supply chains and employment.

Negotiations between British and American trade officials are ongoing, with UK representatives prepared to travel to Washington should a deal seem within reach.

India Faces Challenges but Spots Openings
By Nikhil Inamdar, Business Correspondent, Delhi

While Asian economies are among the hardest hit by the tariffs, India has been spared the worst. The 26% levy on Indian exports is still a significant hurdle, particularly for labour-intensive sectors.

Experts predict a ripple effect, potentially slowing domestic economic growth. However, there is cautious optimism in certain industries. India’s electronics sector, for instance, may benefit as trade routes shift away from Vietnam due to its steeper tariff rate.

Unlike other major economies, India has so far maintained a diplomatic stance towards the US and continues trade negotiations. Pharmaceuticals, which constitute India’s largest industrial export, have been exempted from the tariffs, providing some relief.

African Economies Hit Hard as Aid Cuts Compound the Impact
By Wycliffe Muia, Nairobi

Trump’s tariffs are expected to be particularly damaging for African nations, with South Africa facing a 30% tax and Lesotho seeing a 50% hike.

The timing is especially difficult, as many African economies are already dealing with reduced US foreign aid, which previously funded crucial health and humanitarian initiatives.

South Africa, along with other major economies like Nigeria and Kenya, has historically maintained open trade agreements with the US. Now, those relationships are under threat.

Responding to the announcement, the South African government criticised the tariffs as “punitive” and warned that they could create significant trade barriers rather than fostering economic cooperation.

UK Government Approves Luton Airport Expansion Despite Environmental Concerns

UK Government Approves Luton Airport Expansion Despite Environmental Concerns

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander Grants Green Light for Airport Growth to Handle 32 Million Passengers Annually

The UK government has given the go-ahead for Luton Airport’s expansion, overturning a decision by planning inspectors who had opposed the project on environmental grounds.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has approved the development consent order, allowing the airport to expand its perimeter, build a second terminal, and potentially accommodate 32 million passengers per year.

Despite concerns regarding the impact on ancient woodlands and the Chilterns, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, government officials highlighted the economic benefits of the expansion. Labour sources argue that the creation of thousands of new jobs justifies the decision.

Luton Airport is owned by the local council, ensuring that a share of its profits supports public services. The expansion includes a legally binding “green controlled-growth mechanism” aimed at regulating noise, emissions, and public transport access.

A government spokesperson stated: “The Transport Secretary’s approval reinforces our commitment to economic growth. This decision, reversing the Planning Inspectorate’s recommendation, will bring thousands of jobs and financial benefits to Luton and the broader UK economy.”

Luton Airport, which served approximately 16.7 million passengers last year, is London’s fourth-largest airport and a major hub for budget airlines. The expansion aligns with Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ vision for economic growth in the Oxford-Cambridge corridor.

The approval follows the recent closure of Vauxhall’s van factory in Luton by Stellantis, which put over 1,000 jobs at risk. Airport officials claim significant local support for the project, though critics cite environmental damage and noise pollution.

Paul Kehoe, chairman of Luton Rising, the council’s airport-owning entity, stated: “Our plans will generate up to 11,000 new jobs, contribute £1.5bn in annual economic activity, and provide up to £13m yearly for local initiatives.”

The expansion will see upgrades to the existing terminal, construction of a second terminal, and the extension of the Dart rail link to the new facility. Additional aircraft taxiways and parking areas will also be built.

However, environmental campaigners argue that the project prioritises commercial interests over sustainability. Alex Chapman of the New Economics Foundation warned that the expansion would encourage more outbound tourism, reducing local spending in the UK.

David Oakley-Hill, from Luton Friends of the Earth, criticised the approval, stating that increased flights and traffic would exacerbate pollution, endanger public health, and lead to the destruction of Wigmore Park, a key buffer zone between the airport and residential areas.

Israel Expands Military Actions in Gaza, Aiming to Secure New Territories

Israel Expands Military Actions in Gaza, Aiming to Secure New Territories

Defence Minister Declares Seized Areas Will Be Integrated into Israel’s Security Zones

Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza, with Defence Minister Israel Katz announcing plans to seize significant portions of the territory. He urged Palestinians to expel Hamas and secure the release of all remaining hostages.

Katz stated that the military’s goal is to eliminate terrorist threats and incorporate captured land into Israel’s security zones. However, he did not specify how much additional territory Israel intends to control. The country’s security perimeter currently extends along Gaza’s northern and eastern borders.

The announcement comes shortly after Israel issued mass evacuation orders affecting large parts of Rafah, directing civilians to seek refuge in makeshift camps along the coast. Reports indicate that Israel’s 36th Division has now been deployed to Gaza’s southern region, initiating further ground operations.

Since mid-March, Israel has escalated airstrikes and ground offensives after a ceasefire with Hamas collapsed. Overnight bombings in Khan Younis and Nuseirat refugee camp resulted in at least 21 deaths. The ongoing conflict has devastated essential infrastructure, including hospitals and schools.

The war began following Hamas-led attacks on 7 October 2023, which left approximately 1,200 people dead and 251 taken hostage. Currently, 59 hostages remain in captivity, with 24 believed to be alive. The Hostage Families Forum, advocating for the captives’ release, expressed alarm over the military escalation, stressing that negotiations must remain a priority.

International organisations, including the UK-based Plan International, have condemned Israel’s intensified offensive. Kathleen Spencer Chapman, a spokesperson for the charity, criticised the blockade restricting medical aid, calling the humanitarian situation in Gaza catastrophic. She urged world leaders to push for an immediate ceasefire and ensure unrestricted humanitarian assistance.

Heathrow Power Outage: Airlines Raised Concerns Days Before Shutdown

Heathrow Power Outage: Airlines Raised Concerns Days Before Shutdown

MPs Hear Warnings About Power Supply Risks Were Given Prior to Substation Fire

Airlines had alerted Heathrow Airport about vulnerabilities in its power supply just days before a substation fire forced its closure, a parliamentary committee was told.

Speaking to MPs on the Commons transport select committee, Heathrow’s chief executive, Thomas Woldbye, apologised for the disruption, which affected over 200,000 passengers on 21 March. He justified the closure, arguing that remaining operational under such circumstances could have been “disastrous.”

Nigel Wicking, head of the Heathrow Airline Operators’ Committee, revealed that he had warned senior airport officials about power supply risks, including incidents of cable theft, prior to the fire at the North Hyde substation on 19 March. He stated that thefts had previously disrupted airport operations, including affecting a runway’s power lines.

Wicking criticised Heathrow’s response time in switching to alternative power sources, asserting that Terminal 5 could have resumed partial operations much sooner. However, Woldbye defended the airport’s actions, explaining that the extent of the outage made it impossible to ensure passenger safety.

“If we had not closed, thousands of passengers would have been stranded in unsafe conditions. The risk of overcrowding without the ability to process travellers would have been catastrophic,” he stated. He further noted that, despite some lighting remaining on, critical systems such as CCTV and fire surveillance were inoperative.

Addressing suggestions that some flights could have still landed, Woldbye clarified: “Aircraft could arrive, but passengers would have been left on the runway, which was not an acceptable option.”

Wicking argued that the 24-hour shutdown should have been under continuous review and suggested that more inbound flights could have been processed manually. He claimed that Border Force had both the resources and capacity to facilitate immigration controls under those conditions.

US Criticises UK Over Free Speech Concerns in Unusual Diplomatic Move

US Criticises UK Over Free Speech Concerns in Unusual Diplomatic Move

The US State Department raises alarm over Britain’s restrictions on expression, citing the prosecution of an anti-abortion activist.

In an uncommon intervention, the US State Department has expressed concern over freedom of speech in the United Kingdom. The statement, posted on X (formerly Twitter), referenced the legal case of Livia Tossici-Bolt, an anti-abortion campaigner facing charges for offering conversations to abortion-seeking individuals within a restricted buffer zone near a clinic.

The department emphasised the importance of safeguarding fundamental freedoms, echoing sentiments previously voiced by US Vice-President JD Vance. The same government body has previously criticised law enforcement in Scotland for similar incidents and often comments on free speech issues in countries like Bangladesh, Iran, and Russia.

Ms Tossici-Bolt, who leads the group 40 Days for Life Bournemouth, welcomed Washington’s attention, arguing that Britain’s increasing censorship undermines its democratic principles. She insisted that her peaceful offer to talk should not have resulted in a legal battle, stressing that free expression is a right that must be protected.

While some fear that such cases may impact future UK-US trade negotiations, British officials have denied any direct link. However, the debate over speech rights and public order laws continues, with the case reigniting discussions about the balance between protecting individuals and preserving civil liberties.

Speculation Grows Over Possible Ukrainian Election Amid War

Speculation Grows Over Possible Ukrainian Election Amid War

Despite martial law and ongoing conflict, discussions resurface about the possibility of a presidential election later this year.

As Ukraine continues to face relentless Russian attacks, the idea of holding elections is once again being debated in Kyiv. While the 2024 presidential election was suspended under martial law, recent reports suggest President Volodymyr Zelensky may be reconsidering a summer poll.

Speculation has intensified amid ceasefire discussions, with some sources indicating that Zelensky may see this as an opportunity to strengthen his position. His most prominent potential rival, former army chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi, has dismissed election rumours, stating that the country’s focus should remain on the war effort.

Ukraine’s Central Election Commission has clarified that changes to the law would be required for any vote to proceed, as current legislation mandates a delay after the lifting of martial law. Additionally, concerns persist over security risks, logistical challenges, and the potential for Russian interference.

Despite these obstacles, some argue that advancements in digital voting through the Diia app could enable displaced citizens and soldiers to participate. However, polls indicate that a majority of Ukrainians remain opposed to holding elections during wartime, fearing it could undermine national unity and be exploited by Russia.

UN Reports Targeted Killings of Palestinian Rescue Workers in Gaza

UN Reports Targeted Killings of Palestinian Rescue Workers in Gaza

Fifteen paramedics and humanitarian workers allegedly shot and buried in mass grave, raising concerns over violations of international law

A United Nations report has alleged that Israeli forces systematically killed fifteen Palestinian paramedics and rescue workers, including a UN staff member, before burying them in a mass grave in southern Gaza.

According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the Palestinian Red Crescent (PRCS) and civil defence workers were attempting to aid injured colleagues when their marked vehicles came under heavy fire in Rafah’s Tel al-Sultan district on 23 March. The shootings occurred one day after Israel intensified its military operations near the Egyptian border.

A Red Crescent official in Gaza has stated that one of the victims was found with his hands tied, suggesting he had been detained before being killed. Another rescue worker remains missing.

Jonathan Whittall, OCHA’s head in Palestine, described the scene as horrific: “They arrived to save lives but were struck one by one. Their bodies were later discovered buried together in their uniforms, still wearing gloves.” He added that Israeli forces had used bulldozers to cover both the victims and their ambulances with sand.

Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), confirmed that a UN employee was among the victims. “Their bodies were discarded in shallow graves, a profound violation of human dignity,” he wrote on social media.

The Israeli military has defended its actions, stating that its troops fired on vehicles “moving suspiciously” in an active combat zone. It claimed the movement had not been coordinated in advance and that some of those killed were militants. However, the Red Crescent maintains that the area was considered safe for humanitarian operations.

The PRCS reported that an initial ambulance had successfully transported casualties from an airstrike, but contact was lost with a second support vehicle at 3.30am. A subsequent convoy of five rescue vehicles was sent to retrieve the missing workers but came under attack, leading to multiple fatalities.

Dr Bashar Murad, the Red Crescent’s director of health programmes, recounted that a paramedic in the convoy had called colleagues for help before Israeli soldiers arrived. “During the call, we heard them speaking in Hebrew, giving orders to restrain the medics. It was clear that some were still alive.”

The bodies remained buried for several days before being recovered under difficult conditions. “They were shot in the upper body, then piled into a hole and covered with sand,” said Murad.

The UN and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) have condemned the incident, with IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagain stating, “These were humanitarian workers responding to the wounded. Their clearly marked uniforms and ambulances should have protected them.”

Since the start of Israel’s Gaza offensive in October 2023, more than 1,060 healthcare workers have been killed, according to the UN. The escalation of violence has prompted the global body to reduce its international staff presence in Gaza due to safety concerns.

Extensive Rescue Effort Underway After 11-Year-Old Falls into River Thames

Extensive Rescue Effort Underway After 11-Year-Old Falls into River Thames

Emergency services mobilise helicopters, boats, and drones in urgent search operation in east London

A large-scale rescue mission is in progress after an 11-year-old girl fell into the River Thames near the Woolwich Ferry in east London on Monday afternoon.

The Metropolitan Police, supported by multiple emergency services, launched an urgent search operation at around 1.15pm. Helicopters, lifeboats, and specialist teams, including the RNLI and a Border Force vessel, have been deployed to scour the area near Barge House Causeway, E16.

A Scotland Yard spokesperson confirmed: “A significant response is underway, involving all emergency services working together to locate the child. Her family has been informed and is receiving support from officers.”

The London Fire Brigade is using drones and a fire boat to aid in a structured search of the river. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Joseph Kenny stated that fire crews from multiple stations, along with HM Coastguard, the RNLI, and the London Ambulance Service, are contributing to the operation.

A spokesperson for the London Ambulance Service said their team arrived at the scene but was later stood down after assisting other emergency responders.

Efforts continue as authorities coordinate resources to maximise the chances of locating the missing girl.

Government Plans Stricter Tax Measures on Savers to Boost Revenue

Government Plans Stricter Tax Measures on Savers to Boost Revenue

New Proposals May Grant HMRC Greater Access to Banking Data and Wage Deductions

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is exploring new measures to tighten tax collection on savings, including granting HMRC expanded powers to deduct taxes directly from wages and access detailed banking information.

The initiative forms part of a broader effort to ensure taxpayers meet their obligations, as the Treasury seeks additional revenue without raising tax rates. The government is concerned that many savers are not properly declaring interest earned on their accounts.

During the Spring Statement, Reeves pledged to increase prosecutions for tax fraud by 20%, committing additional resources to HMRC’s crackdown on tax evasion. Consultation papers published after the statement suggest that banks may be required to provide National Insurance details of savers, making it easier to link individuals to their financial assets.

Currently, financial institutions supply HMRC with data on taxable savings, but inconsistencies in reporting mean that a significant portion remains unreadable. Officials argue that improving data accuracy would help ensure taxes are collected fairly and efficiently, securing funding for public services.

The proposals also include changes to the PAYE tax system, allowing HMRC to adjust tax codes more frequently to collect unpaid tax on savings interest. This could impact nearly 900,000 additional savers by 2028-29, as frozen income tax thresholds push more people into higher tax brackets.

While the Treasury defends the move as a step towards better compliance, critics warn that it risks excessive government control. Some tax experts have expressed concerns that increasing surveillance of personal finances could lead to an overreach in state powers.

Amid these developments, fears are growing over potential reductions in cash Isa allowances, with ministers reportedly considering a sharp cut from £20,000 to £4,000 to encourage investment in other financial products.

Devastating Earthquake Strikes Central Myanmar

Devastating Earthquake Strikes Central Myanmar

Powerful 7.7-Magnitude Quake Causes Widespread Damage and Casualties

A severe earthquake measuring 7.7 in magnitude has struck central Myanmar, causing extensive damage and loss of life. The tremor’s epicentre was recorded 16km (10 miles) north-west of Sagaing at a depth of 10km, with strong shocks felt in neighbouring Thailand and Yunnan province in China.

In Myanmar’s capital, Nay Pyi Taw, the earthquake left roads severely damaged and buildings partially collapsed. The emergency department of a local hospital suffered destruction, and injured victims were seen receiving medical attention in the hospital compound. Myanmar’s military chief, Min Aung Hlaing, personally visited the affected areas, speaking with survivors and assessing the damage.

Several pagodas and large sections of a Buddhist monastery were also significantly damaged. Meanwhile, in Bangkok, Thailand, the tremors caused a building to collapse, prompting search-and-rescue efforts amid the debris.