Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte Arrested on ICC Warrant  

The Guardian,

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested at Manila’s main airport on accusations of crimes against humanity linked to his “war on drugs.” This development followed an International Criminal Court (ICC)-issued secret arrest warrant. Duterte, filmed en route to The Hague, claimed responsibility for his anti-drugs campaign. He faces trial, with a pre-trial hearing set for September.

Duterte’s arrest underscores both the ICC’s strength in asserting its mandate amidst pressures and its limitations, as political rivalries played a key role in this case. The arrest highlights the court’s symbolic significance but also its challenges, including securing high-profile arrests under political constraints. The outcome of Duterte’s case remains uncertain, reflecting broader issues of justice and accountability within the realm of international law.

Saudi Arabia Reevaluates Consultancy Engagements Amid Budget Constraints

Financial Times,

Saudi Arabia is reassessing its engagement with external consulting firms due to reduced budgets stemming from declining oil prices and a reassessment of the value derived from these services. This shift has led to a reduction in blank cheque engagements for consultancies and heightened competition among firms, resulting in price reductions.

The move reflects a broader trend of governments scrutinizing expenditures and seeking greater value in advisory services. As Saudi Arabia navigates economic pressures, this reevaluation signifies a strategic approach to resource allocation and fiscal responsibility.

Global Markets Diverge: Asian and European Shares Rise as Wall Street Declines  

Reuters,

On Monday, Asian and European shares experienced significant gains, while U.S. stock futures declined, reflecting differing economic outlooks across regions. Investors are anticipating various central bank policy meetings, notably the U.S. Federal Reserve, which is expected to maintain current interest rates.

Oil prices reached a two-week high following U.S. threats against Yemen’s Houthis but partially retreated on hopes for an end to the Ukraine war, potentially increasing Russian energy supplies. European markets showed strength, buoyed by Germany’s fiscal plans, while the euro approached a five-month high.

China’s economic data revealed mixed results, but shares remained stable as investors awaited policy announcements to boost consumption. In the U.S., recession fears persisted, exacerbated by recent comments from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and President Trump, causing a decline in Nasdaq and S&P 500 futures. The dollar remained weak, hovering near a five-month low amid concerns over Trump’s unpredictable policies. Meanwhile, gold prices continued to soar, nearing record highs as investors sought safe-haven assets.

President Trump to Discuss Ceasefire Terms with President Putin Amid Domestic Criticisms  

The Guardian,

U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin this week regarding ceasefire terms. Trump’s envoy described recent discussions with Putin as positive, but concerns persist about the potential implications for Ukraine.

Domestically, Democrats are heavily criticizing Elon Musk after his comments suggesting cuts to social security programs, while Trump and Republicans had previously claimed such programs would remain untouched. Additionally, the U.S. deported 250 alleged gang members to El Salvador despite a court ruling to halt the flights. Erik Prince is advocating for privatized deportation plans under Trump’s administration.

Other updates include the removal of a defense department webpage honoring a Black Medal of Honor recipient, Pete Hegseth influencing Pentagon policies, and analyses on the economic state under Trump versus Biden. Activists accuse the Trump administration of a quid pro quo related to a Michigan fossil fuel pipeline proposal, and there are ongoing concerns about Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport gang members.

Kabaddi World Cup 2025 Commences in the United Kingdom  

The Sun,

The 2025 Kabaddi World Cup is being held for the first time outside Asia, taking place in the Midlands, United Kingdom, from March 17 to 23. Top male and female kabaddi players are competing in Birmingham, Coventry, Walsall, and Wolverhampton. India is the firm favorite to win this edition.

Organized by World Kabaddi and the British Kabaddi League, with support from the WMCA Commonwealth Games Major Events Legacy Fund, the event features over 60 matches throughout the week. This is the second edition of the Kabaddi World Cup, with India having won both the men’s and women’s categories in 2019.

England and Scotland are participating for the first time, and England’s captain, Hardeep ‘Harry’ Singh, has expressed enthusiasm about competing in his home country. The matches are being broadcast live and free via BBC iPlayer in the UK. The tournament follows the ‘National’ or ‘Asian’ style rules and is being played on foam mats.