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NOAA Hurricane Hunters Face Job Cuts Amid Government Workforce Reduction

NOAA Hurricane Hunters Face Job Cuts Amid Government Workforce Reduction

Turbulence on the Ground as Key Weather Experts Are Laid Off and Reinstated

For years, Josh Ripp has faced extreme weather as an engineer flying into hurricanes for the US government. However, the last few weeks have proven to be even more turbulent for him and his colleagues.

In late February, the Trump administration dismissed over 800 recently hired or promoted employees from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including members of the elite Hurricane Hunters flight team. The layoffs were executed via a mass email as part of broader cost-cutting measures.

Ripp, a retired US Navy officer and Trump supporter, was among those abruptly let go. But on Friday evening, he received another email instructing him to return to work in Lakeland, Florida, by 12 March. The chaotic process has raised concerns about the impact of sweeping government cuts overseen by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency.

According to reports, additional NOAA job losses—potentially exceeding 1,000 staff members—are under consideration. Experts warn that such reductions could severely disrupt weather forecasting, affecting everything from hurricane tracking to daily weather predictions relied upon by millions of Americans.

Meteorologists caution that NOAA’s work is critical not only for public safety but also for aviation, retail, shipping, and disaster response. Already, some weather services, such as balloon launches in Alaska that provide crucial forecasting data, have been scaled back.

Despite concerns, the White House has maintained that the layoffs were carefully planned to avoid compromising essential functions. However, many in the scientific community fear the long-term consequences.

Ripp, still uncertain about his future, expressed frustration with how the cuts were handled. “We operate efficiently and provide vital information at minimal cost. If the government is looking to save money, NOAA is not the place to cut.”

Trump Threatens Heavy Tariffs on EU Alcohol Imports Amid Trade Dispute

Trump Threatens Heavy Tariffs on EU Alcohol Imports Amid Trade Dispute

Former President Seeks Retaliation for EU’s 50% Levy on Bourbon Whiskey

Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a 200% tariff on European wine, champagne, and other alcoholic imports, escalating tensions in an ongoing trade conflict with the European Union.

Posting on his Truth Social platform on Thursday, Trump justified the move as a countermeasure against the EU’s newly introduced 50% tariff on American bourbon whiskey, which is set to take effect on 1 April. The EU’s decision is part of a broader €26 billion retaliation package against Trump’s previous 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium imports.

Trump has long argued that the US has been exploited by its trading partners, insisting that higher tariffs will encourage domestic production and bring back jobs. However, most mainstream economists reject this claim, warning that such measures could push the US economy into recession.

Despite initiating the trade dispute, Trump has expressed anger over the EU’s retaliatory actions. He stated: “If this Tariff is not removed immediately, the U.S. will shortly place a 200% Tariff on all WINES, CHAMPAGNES, & ALCOHOLIC PRODUCTS COMING OUT OF FRANCE AND OTHER E.U. REPRESENTED COUNTRIES. This will be great for the Wine and Champagne businesses in the U.S.”

The US has a history of sidestepping European geographical protection rules, with American supermarkets frequently selling local imitations of products such as champagne and parmesan.

European officials responded firmly, vowing not to be intimidated. French foreign trade minister Laurent Saint-Martin stated: “We will not give in to threats. Donald Trump is escalating the trade war he started.” He further affirmed France’s commitment to defending its industries.

Stock markets reacted negatively to the developments. European indices fell on Thursday, with France’s Cac 40 dropping 0.3% and Germany’s Dax losing 0.6%. Shares of major European beverage companies also took a hit, with Pernod Ricard declining by nearly 4% and Rémy Cointreau by 3.5%. LVMH, the parent company of Moët & Chandon, fell 1.4%.

Nicolas Ozanam of the French wine and spirits exporters’ federation voiced his frustration, saying: “We are tired of being used as bargaining chips in disputes unrelated to our industry.”

In the US, markets also responded with volatility. The S&P 500 index fell by 0.7% after opening, though Trump’s economic advisors downplayed the significance of market fluctuations. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remarked, “We’re focused on the real economy, not short-term stock movements.”

Trump also repeated his long-standing criticism of the EU, accusing the bloc of being designed to take advantage of the US and describing it as “one of the most hostile and abusive taxing and tariffing authorities in the world.”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen countered Trump’s rhetoric, emphasising that trade relations between the EU and the US have historically provided prosperity and employment on both sides of the Atlantic.

Survivors Recount Horror of Hijacked Train Attack in Pakistan

Survivors Recount Horror of Hijacked Train Attack in Pakistan

Passengers share harrowing experiences as security forces battle to rescue remaining hostages in Balochistan.

Passengers who escaped a hijacked train in Pakistan’s Balochistan province have described terrifying scenes of chaos and fear as armed militants stormed the Jaffar Express.

“We held our breath through the gunfire, unsure of what would come next,” said Ishaq Noor, one of over 400 passengers on board the train travelling from Quetta to Peshawar when it was attacked on Tuesday. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) seized control, taking hostages and injuring several people, including the train driver.

Military sources claim that 155 passengers have been rescued and 27 militants killed, but independent verification is lacking. Security forces continue operations, deploying troops, helicopters, and special forces to free those still held. However, the BLA has warned of severe consequences if a rescue is attempted.

Reports suggest that some militants may have left the train, taking an unknown number of hostages into the mountainous terrain. Among the passengers were more than 100 security personnel, according to officials.

Muhammad Ashraf, travelling to Lahore to visit family, was among those who managed to escape late on Tuesday. “There was sheer panic. It felt like doomsday,” he recalled. He and a group of passengers walked for nearly four hours to the next railway station, some carrying exhausted travellers on their backs.

Mr Noor, who was travelling with his wife and two children, described the initial explosion as so powerful that his child was thrown from the seat. “We shielded our children with our bodies, ready to take the bullets instead,” he said.

Mushtaq Muhammad, who was in the third carriage, recalled hearing the attackers speaking in Balochi, with one giving instructions to monitor security personnel closely. The militants eventually began releasing some passengers, including women, children, and elderly individuals. Mr Noor was freed after telling them he was from Turbat and had his family with him.

It remains unclear how many passengers are still being held hostage. The military has intensified rescue efforts, with reports from Quetta station showing dozens of empty wooden coffins being prepared for potential casualties.

The BLA, a separatist group seeking independence, has waged a decades-long insurgency and frequently targets police stations, railways, and infrastructure. The Pakistani government, along with the UK and US, has classified it as a terrorist organisation.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan expressed deep concern, urging all stakeholders to work towards a peaceful, political resolution. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned the attack and called for the immediate release of all hostages.

Nicola Sturgeon to Leave Holyrood in 2026, Paving Way for New SNP Candidate

Nicola Sturgeon to Leave Holyrood in 2026, Paving Way for New SNP Candidate

The former first minister said it was a “difficult decision” but confirmed she remains committed to Scotland’s independence movement.

Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s former first minister, has confirmed she will not seek re-election to the Scottish Parliament in 2026.

The Glasgow Southside MSP announced her decision on Wednesday, describing it as “far from easy.” Despite stepping back, she pledged to continue supporting the SNP’s push for independence.

Her announcement follows reports that the party had approved her candidacy despite an ongoing police investigation. Ms Sturgeon was arrested in 2023 as part of Operation Branchform, an inquiry into SNP finances, before being released without charge. Her former husband, ex-SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, was later charged in connection with alleged embezzlement of party funds.

The couple announced their separation earlier this year.

In a letter to party members, Ms Sturgeon, who stepped down as first minister in March 2023 after eight years, wrote that she had “known for some time” that it was the right moment to “embrace new opportunities.” She affirmed her commitment to ensuring the SNP retains the seat and vowed to stand with the party “every step of the way” towards independence.

Her successor as first minister, Humza Yousaf, has also declared he will not run for re-election in 2026.

Ms Sturgeon’s departure is part of a wider shift within the SNP, with over a dozen MSPs, including current further and higher education minister Graeme Dey, also stepping down.

However, First Minister John Swinney assured members that the party has a “strong talent pool” to select new candidates for the upcoming election.

Manchester United Unveils Plans for 100,000-Seat Stadium Near Old Trafford

Manchester United Unveils Plans for 100,000-Seat Stadium Near Old Trafford

Project Aims to Revitalise the Area with Jobs, Housing, and a Landmark Venue

Manchester United have announced their ambitious proposal to construct a new 100,000-capacity stadium adjacent to Old Trafford, marking a significant shift from their historic home of 115 years.

The club sees the project as a catalyst for regeneration, with officials estimating it could generate 92,000 jobs and provide 17,000 new homes in Greater Manchester. The stadium, expected to cost £2 billion, is projected to be completed within five years, with architects Foster + Partners set to commence work later this year.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s co-owner, emphasised the transformative impact of the stadium, comparing its potential influence to global landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower. “An extraordinary venue will drive a successful regeneration scheme,” he stated. “This will not just be a stadium—it will be the world’s best football arena, elevating the fan experience while preserving Old Trafford’s legacy.”

Architect Norman Foster’s design features a distinctive “vast umbrella” covering the stadium, intended to collect rainwater, along with a spacious public plaza double the size of Trafalgar Square. He described the project as a “sustainable urban hub,” designed for walkability, public transport access, and environmental integration.

The initiative has received strong backing from local authorities, including Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who likened its potential impact to the 2012 London Olympics. However, the Manchester United Supporters Trust has voiced concerns about affordability, ticket pricing, and potential financial strain on the club.

While Ratcliffe confirmed that government funding would not be required for the stadium itself, he indicated that support may be necessary for the wider redevelopment efforts. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has previously expressed support for revitalising the Old Trafford area, though specific government involvement remains unclear.

Trump Stands Firm on Tariffs as Markets Plunge Amid Recession Concerns

Trump Stands Firm on Tariffs as Markets Plunge Amid Recession Concerns

Stock Market Suffers One of 2025’s Worst Days Before Modest Recovery

Fears over Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies targeting Canada, Mexico and China sent Wall Street into turmoil on Monday, triggering a sharp market downturn that was only partially recovered by a late-session rebound.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the day 890 points lower after briefly plunging by 1,000 points, a drop that would have ranked among the 20 worst in market history.

Meanwhile, the Nasdaq suffered a steep 4.2 per cent decline—the largest one-day percentage drop since September 2022—while the S&P 500 fell below its 200-day moving average for the first time since November 2023.

Asian markets also faced early declines on Tuesday as global investors reacted to Trump’s unpredictable trade policies and his weekend comments on Fox News, where he acknowledged the possibility of a U.S. recession.

In a separate development, Trump pledged to purchase a “brand-new Tesla” to show support for billionaire Elon Musk, who faced a disastrous start to the week—losing $18.8 billion from his personal fortune and witnessing a major cyberattack on X.

Norfolk Woman Clings to Stolen Renaissance Painting Despite Italian Claims

Norfolk Woman Clings to Stolen Renaissance Painting Despite Italian Claims

Artwork by Antonio Solario, taken from an Italian museum in 1973, resurfaces in Britain but remains in private hands

A 16th-century painting of the Madonna and Child, stolen from a museum in northern Italy more than fifty years ago, has reappeared in Britain—but the woman who possesses it in Norfolk refuses to return it, despite it being listed on international stolen art databases.

The artwork, by Italian painter Antonio Solario, was part of the collection at the Civic Museum of Belluno until it was taken in a 1973 heist. Some stolen pieces were later recovered in Austria, but the Madonna and Child ended up in the hands of Barbara De Dozsa, whose late husband, Baron de Dozsa, purchased it that same year, claiming to have done so in good faith. The couple kept it in their historic Norfolk residence, East Barsham Manor, once favoured by Henry VIII.

An attempt to auction the painting in 2017 led to its identification by museum officials in Belluno, confirming its status as stolen. However, procedural delays—exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic—meant that British authorities eventually returned the painting to De Dozsa in 2020, as Italian officials had not provided the necessary legal documents in time.

Art lawyer Christopher Marinello, who specialises in recovering looted artworks, has urged De Dozsa to return the piece voluntarily, arguing that it rightfully belongs to the people of Belluno. She has resisted, citing the Limitation Act 1980, which allows ownership to be transferred if stolen goods were acquired unknowingly and retained for more than six years.

The British police maintain that De Dozsa has not committed a crime and regard the matter as a civil dispute. However, experts stress that no reputable auction house would handle the painting, as it remains on Interpol’s and the Italian Carabinieri’s “most wanted” lists.

Negotiations to resolve the issue stalled when De Dozsa allegedly refused an offer to cover legal and storage costs, instead demanding the painting’s full market value—estimated between £60,000 and £80,000. Marinello has warned that if the painting were ever taken to Italy, it would be immediately seized by authorities.

Mark Carney Takes the Helm in Canada and Stands Firm Against Trump

Mark Carney Takes the Helm in Canada and Stands Firm Against Trump

Former Bank of England chief pledges to defend Canadian sovereignty and take a tougher stance on trade with the US

Mark Carney, former Governor of the Bank of England, has assumed the role of Prime Minister of Canada at a pivotal moment, as tensions with the United States over trade and sovereignty intensify. Regarded as a direct counter to Donald Trump, Carney used his acceptance speech to strongly criticise the former US president’s policies and commend Canadians for resisting economic pressure.

During his campaign, Carney made it clear that US-imposed tariffs would remain in place “until Americans show us respect.” He also underlined that the broader threats to Canada’s independence were just as significant, emphatically rejecting any suggestion that the country could become an extension of its southern neighbour.

With a wealth of experience in managing global financial crises—including the banking collapse, the eurozone turmoil, and the economic impact of Brexit—Carney is preparing a calculated economic response to Trump’s strategies. Among his proposals is the potential redirection of Canada’s energy exports towards Europe, reinforcing trade ties with what he considers more “reliable” partners, including the UK and the EU.

Beyond economic measures, Canada’s new leadership is determined to strengthen international alliances against protectionist policies and uphold multilateralism. Carney has already signalled an expectation of support from the UK, stressing the historical and strategic connections between the two nations.

Although the Canadian general election is scheduled for October, speculation is growing that Carney may call an early vote. If this happens, the G7 Summit in June could serve as a high-profile stage for a direct showdown between Canada’s new leader and Donald Trump, further elevating the geopolitical stakes of their ongoing dispute.

Deadly Clashes Erupt in Syria as Assad Loyalists Battle Government Forces

Deadly Clashes Erupt in Syria as Assad Loyalists Battle Government Forces

Dozens killed in Syria’s most violent confrontations since the fall of Assad

Intense fighting has erupted in Syria’s coastal region as forces loyal to ousted President Bashar al-Assad clashed with government troops, marking the deadliest violence since the Islamist transitional government took power in December.

According to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, at least 71 people have died, including 35 government soldiers, 32 fighters affiliated with the former regime, and four civilians. The clashes have also left many wounded.

The conflict began when government forces were ambushed during a security operation in Latakia, prompting reinforcements to be sent. In response, a curfew was imposed in the port cities of Latakia and Tartous, with further reports of violence emerging from Homs and Aleppo.

Videos verified by the BBC showed armed men firing at a building in Homs on Thursday night, setting it ablaze. Local fighters linked to the former regime took control of military positions, using the mountainous terrain of Latakia as a base for further attacks. In Jableh, other groups entrenched themselves in urban areas.

Military checkpoints, highways, and strategic sites along the coastline were targeted, leading to significant unrest. Reports suggest that government forces have killed around 70 ex-regime fighters, capturing at least 25 more in Jableh and nearby regions.

Colonel Hassan Abdul Ghani, a spokesperson for Syria’s defence ministry, issued a warning via state media, urging Assad loyalists to surrender or face destruction. “Thousands have chosen to lay down their arms and return home, while others persist in fighting for criminals. Their fate is sealed,” he declared.

The security situation remains a major challenge for interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who is also dealing with recent clashes against Druze forces in the south. Meanwhile, Alawite activists claim their community has faced violent attacks since Assad’s fall, particularly in rural Latakia and Homs.

The new government has also pledged to dismantle remaining chemical stockpiles produced under Assad’s rule, a commitment made earlier this week to international watchdogs. While Assad’s government denied using chemical weapons during Syria’s 14-year civil war, activists continue to accuse it of multiple chemical attacks.

Train Services Suspended at Gare du Nord After Discovery of WWII Bomb

Train Services Suspended at Gare du Nord After Discovery of WWII Bomb

Unexploded device found near northern Paris station disrupts Eurostar and French rail services

Rail services at Paris’s Gare du Nord, including Eurostar connections from London and high-speed domestic trains, were brought to a halt after a World War II bomb was discovered on nearby tracks.

The 500kg unexploded device was unearthed during overnight maintenance in St-Denis, about 2.5km from Gare du Nord. It was buried two metres underground in an area known for wartime remnants. Minesweepers were swiftly deployed, and a 1km security perimeter was established. Despite the disruption, no evacuations were necessary.

Paris police suspended all rail traffic at France’s busiest station while specialists worked to neutralise the device. The station serves around 700,000 passengers daily and connects to Belgium, the Netherlands, and Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot assured the public that security procedures were in place, stating that while the situation was under control, delays would persist throughout the day. He expressed hope that some services could resume in the afternoon.

Eurostar urged travellers to rebook for another day, confirming that no trains would run between London and Paris on Friday. Services to Brussels and Amsterdam remained unaffected. Meanwhile, some northern regional trains were redirected to the Gare de Lyon, with TER estimating operations in the Hauts-de-France region would not restart until mid-afternoon.