Mumbai Boat Tragedy: Survivor Challenges Navy’s Explanation
Hindustan Times,
A survivor of the tragic Mumbai boat collision has contested the Navy’s claim of an engine failure. According to the survivor, the driver of the Navy speedboat involved in the collision was “showing off,” performing stunts that led to the disaster. The collision, which occurred near Mumbai’s Karanja on Wednesday afternoon, resulted in the sinking of the passenger ferry Neel Kamal, claiming 14 lives. Gaurav Gupta, a passenger on the ill-fated ferry, described the Navy speedboat zigzagging dangerously before crashing. Gupta alleged that passengers, unaware of the severity of the situation, failed to wear life jackets, which worsened the tragedy. The Navy denies these claims, maintaining engine failure as the cause.
Russian Missile Attack on Kyiv Kills One, Sparks Fires
Reuters,
A Russian missile strike on Kyiv during rush hour has left one dead and injured seven others. Explosions damaged buildings, ignited fires, and caused chaos in Ukraine’s capital. Kyiv’s military head, Serhiy Popko, reported the use of eight missiles, including hypersonic Kinzhal missiles. Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed four hospitalized injuries while Ukrainian air defenses intercepted the attack. Witnesses described multiple explosions following warnings from the air force. This assault marks another escalation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Xi Jinping Reaffirms ‘One Country, Two Systems’ Policy
Xinhua,
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of the “one country, two systems” policy, stating it is vital for maintaining long-term stability in Hong Kong and Macao. Speaking at Macao’s 25th anniversary celebration of its return to China, Xi highlighted the policy’s role in fostering prosperity and peaceful coexistence. He stressed its global significance as an embodiment of inclusivity and openness. The policy, Xi noted, is essential for national rejuvenation and achieving harmonious cooperation between diverse social systems.
France Faces Military Expulsion Across Africa
Associated Press,
France’s influence in Africa continues to wane as Chad and Senegal announce plans to end defense cooperation. Chad terminated its agreement on its Independence Day, citing sovereignty concerns. Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye declared French troops would soon leave the country, signaling a shift in West Africa’s engagement with France. Analysts link these decisions to growing anti-French sentiment and increasing partnerships with Russia and China. Despite efforts to reform its African strategy, France’s reduced military presence marks the end of its post-colonial dominance in the Sahel region.
US Government Shutdown Looms as Trump-Backed Bill Fails
BBC News,
The US House of Representatives rejected a Trump-endorsed funding bill, inching the country closer to a government shutdown. The measure, opposed by 38 Republicans and all Democrats, proposed suspending the federal debt limit and tying government funding to disaster relief. Speaker Mike Johnson plans to present an alternative before funding lapses. The shutdown threatens federal operations, non-essential services, and benefits like food assistance. Democrats criticized Johnson’s inability to secure bipartisan support, blaming his alignment with Trump and Elon Musk’s opposition to the previous funding deal.
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