Two Japanese military helicopters crashed, possibly colliding, leaving one person dead and seven missing, officials confirmed.
According to a spokesperson for Japan’s self-defense force, the incident occurred late on Saturday, with one person recovered and later confirmed deceased.
Defence Minister holds press conference
Minoru Kihara, the defense minister, stated that rescuers had identified what is believed to be parts of the aircraft in the sea, indicating a collision between the two helicopters.
Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara holds a press conference in Tokyo on April 23, 2024. (Photo by Kyodo News via Getty Images)
“At this point, the cause is unknown, but firstly, we do our best to save lives,” Kihara said.
The minister explained that the helicopters were engaged in drills aimed at countering submarines during nighttime operations.
Hours later, Kihara updated reporters, confirming that the crew member who was rescued had succumbed to their injuries.
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ship searching for two MSDF helicopters in waters east of Torishima Island in the Izu Island chain in the Pacific. (Photo by Kyodo News via Getty Images)
The ministry has recovered flight recorders and is currently analyzing the cause of the incident, including the possibility of a collision between the two helicopters.
The helicopters crashed during a night-time training exercise near the Izu islands in the Pacific, as reported by NHK.
Communication with one of the helicopters was lost at 10:38 PM near Torishima island, with an emergency signal received just one minute later, according to NHK.
Adm. Ryo Sakai, chief of staff of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, holds a press conference at the Defense Ministry in Tokyo on April 23, 2024, after two MSDF helicopters crashed during a drill in the Pacific on April 20. (Photo by Kyodo News via Getty Images)
Approximately 25 minutes later, the military realized that communication with the other helicopter was also lost in the same area.
The Mitsubishi SH-60K helicopters primarily operate from naval destroyers.
The navy has stated that since there were no other aircraft or vessels in the nearby waters, the involvement of another country in the incident is unlikely.
Japan’s defense spending is on the rise, and it’s deepening cooperation with the US and other Asian countries in response to increased assertiveness from China in the region and the unpredictability of North Korea.
In April 2023, a Japanese army helicopter carrying 10 individuals crashed off Miyako island in southern Okinawa, resulting in no survivors.
The Malaysian Navy has reported that two navy helicopters collided mid-air during a parade rehearsal, resulting in the tragic loss of all 10 crew members on board. The incident took place at the Lumut naval base in the western state of Perak at 9:32 am on Tuesday (0132 GMT), as detailed in a statement released by the navy.
According to the statement, “All victims were confirmed dead at the scene and sent to the Lumut Naval Base military hospital for identification.”
Helicopter Collision Caught on Camera
A video circulating on local media captured the moment several helicopters were flying in formation when one of the aircraft’s rotors clipped another before both crashed to the ground.
Helicopter crash in Lumut, Perak, Malaysia on April 23, 2024. (Photo by Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia / Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Local police confirmed the authenticity of the footage, and Malaysia’s navy announced its intention to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the tragic accident.
Helicopters involved in the incident included a Eurocopter AS555SN Fennec lightweight carrying three crew members and an AW139 maritime operation helicopter with seven people on board, the navy confirmed.
The AW139, produced by AgustaWestland, a subsidiary of the Italian defense contractor Leonardo, and the Fennec, manufactured by European multinational defense conglomerate Airbus, were the models involved.
Two military helicopters collide mid-air during a rehearsal in Malaysia. (Photo by Elif Acar/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Local media reported the AW139 crashed at a sports complex at the naval base, while the Fennec hit a nearby swimming pool.
Photographs depicted the heavily damaged Fennec amidst wreckage on the naval base stadium track, with rescue personnel and scattered debris visible.
(Photo by Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia / Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated the two aircraft were engaged in a rehearsal for a parade commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Royal Malaysian Navy, scheduled for Saturday.
Efforts were initiated to confirm the identities of the crew members killed, all of whom were reported to be under the age of 40, Mohamed Khaled informed reporters.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim extended condolences to the families of the victims, remarking, “The nation mourns the heart-wrenching and soul-wrenching tragedy.” He further indicated that an immediate investigation would be conducted by the Ministry of Defense, particularly TLDM (Royal Malaysian Navy), to determine the cause of the crash.
Incidents involving helicopters are not uncommon in the Southeast Asian nation, with a recent incident involving a Malaysian Coast Guard helicopter crashing in the Strait of Malacca last month, resulting in no fatalities. Additionally, in 2016, a deputy minister was among those who perished after a Eurocopter AS350 crashed in the Malaysian state of Sarawak.
Eleven previously unreleased songs by Johnny Cash recorded as demos in 1993 but never fully realized, are set to finally debut on a new album titled Songwriter, scheduled for release on June 28.
Alongside the announcement, a single titled Well Alright was disclosed today: a sassy, swaggering track about desire amidst laundry, featuring a classic Cash opening couplet: “I met her at the laundromat, she was washing extra hot / I said don’t you need a little help with that big load you got?”
Johnny Cash Demos Reimagined with Star-Studded Collaboration
The demos have been transformed into completed versions, with guest appearances by country singer Vince Gill and rock band the Black Keys.
Johnny Cash, with Takamine acoustic guitar, recording in the home studio. (Photo by Beth Gwinn/Redferns)
These songs were brought to life by a skilled team of musicians who previously collaborated with Cash, including guitarist Marty Stuart, drummer Pete Abbott, and – before his passing in 2023 – upright bassist Dave Roe. Cash’s original vocal performances from the demo recordings have been seamlessly integrated into the new arrangements.
Cash’s son John Carter Cash collaborated on the project as co-producer, alongside David “Fergie” Ferguson, the studio engineer who worked with Rick Rubin to record Cash’s memorable suite of songs towards the end of his life, American Recordings.
“Nobody plays Cash better than Marty Stuart, and Dave Roe of course played with Dad for many years,” John Carter Cash expressed. “They knew his energies, his movements, and they let him be the guide. It was just playing with Johnny once again, and that’s what it was. That was the energy of the creation.”
Johnny Cash’s Unfinished Album Journey
The demos were of songs Cash had written over several years before 1993, while he was between recording contracts.
Before he could develop them into a complete album, he met Rubin and went into the American Recordings project, which featured Cash’s compositions alongside modern song standards by Paul Simon and Leonard Cohen, and unexpected cover versions of artists such as Nine Inch Nails, Danzig, and Bonnie “Prince” Billy.
Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash as “The Million Dollar Quartet”. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Cash passed away in 2003 from complications due to diabetes, following the release of the fourth American Recordings album the previous year.
Opening track ‘Hello Out There’
The opening track of the new album, Hello Out There, sees Cash expressing concerns about the state of the world, singing: “Hello out there, this is planet Earth calling calling calling calling calling / Hello out there, our net worth is falling falling falling falling falling”.
He also went through his personal struggles on Drive On – which originated during chronic pain following a broken jaw in the early 1990s – and Like a Soldier, which reflects on his battle with drug addiction. “It’s something that he wrote after his first stint in a recovery center – he felt like he was like a soldier getting over a war,” John Carter Cash explained.
American country singer Johnny Cash (1932 – 2003) appears at the Grand Gala du Disque in Amsterdam. (Photo by Central Press/Getty Images)
I Love You Tonite was penned as a love song for his wife June Carter Cash, while Poor Valley Girl – featuring vocals from Gill – is a tribute to June and her fellow country musician and mother Maybelle Carter.
Cash pays homage to James Taylor on She Sang Sweet Baby James, his home state of Arkansas on Have You Been to Little Rock?, and revisits a Cash song from 1962, Sing It Pretty, Sue. Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys contributes a guitar solo on the song Spotlight.
Promotional materials for the album promise tracks covering themes of “love, family, sorrow, beauty, spiritual salvation, survival, redemption, and of course, some of the lighthearted humor Johnny was known for”.
Around 150 protesters were arrested at pro-Palestinian demonstrations held at Yale and New York University on Monday night, amidst escalating tensions on prominent US campuses.
At Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, authorities detained at least 47 protesters on Monday evening, as confirmed by the university in a statement. Those students who were arrested will undergo disciplinary proceedings.
Protest at Yale, NYU
The protests at Yale drew several hundred participants, including individuals engaged in hunger strikes, advocating for the university to divest from military weapons manufacturers and other companies associated with Israel. Despite repeated requests from Yale officials for the demonstrators to disperse, warnings were issued regarding potential law enforcement intervention and disciplinary measures for non-compliance.
Protesters at Yale demand divestment from companies tied to Israel amidst warnings of potential law enforcement action. (Photo by Selcuk Acar/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, in downtown Manhattan, confrontations erupted between police and protesters at New York University. Reports surfaced of officers employing pepper spray as demonstrators attempted to obstruct a police bus transporting detained students, resulting in the arrest of over 100 individuals.
Police Disperse Campus Protesters
Law enforcement officers moved in on an encampment near the university after nightfall, where hundreds of protesters had defied warnings from the university administration about potential repercussions for remaining on the premises.
Videos circulated on social media depicted police dismantling tents in the protesters’ encampment amidst a tense and occasionally chaotic atmosphere. Some officers were seen removing tents, while others engaged in physical altercations with demonstrators.
Officers remove tents as tensions rise at the university encampment. (Photo by Fatih Aktas/Anadolu via Getty Images)
According to a spokesperson for the New York Police Department, arrests were made following Columbia University’s request for enforcement of trespassing violations. However, the exact number of arrests and citations won’t be known until later.
The police intervention followed a significant walkout by faculty at Columbia University on Monday, standing in solidarity with students who had been arrested the previous week during a camp protest. These students were advocating for the university to divest from companies associated with Israel.
Campus Activism Spreads Nationwide
Bassam Khawaja, a lecturer at Columbia Law School and a supervising attorney at the university’s human rights clinic, expressed dismay over the president’s swift action involving the police. He described the protest as non-violent, emphasizing that it resembled typical campus activities.
Following the events at Columbia, students across the country initiated their own demonstrations in support. Many of these protests demanded their universities to endorse a ceasefire in Gaza and to divest from companies linked to Israel.
Student protests gain momentum, echoing demands for Gaza ceasefire and divestment. (Photo by Fatih Aktas/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Students at Brown, Princeton, and Northwestern staged protests on Friday and throughout the weekend.
Student-led protest encampments have sprouted up at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Emerson College in the Boston area, reflecting a broader wave of activism across campuses.
Campus Unrest Sparks National Debate
Similar demonstrations have occurred at Boston University, the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Robert Kraft, a significant benefactor of Columbia University and owner of the New England Patriots NFL team, has declared his intention to withhold support “until corrective action is taken” on campus.
NYPD officers arrest pro-Palestinian protests began at Columbia University and spread to other schools in New York. (Photo by Fatih Aktas/Anadolu via Getty Images)
At Columbia University in New York, where diverse opinions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict abound, some Jewish students have aligned with pro-Palestinian protests, while others have opted to abstain, citing feelings of insecurity.
Facing mounting pressure, Columbia University President Nemat Minouche Shafik summoned New York police last week to dismantle a tent encampment on the main lawn, where students had been advocating for the university to divest from companies with Israeli ties.
Criticism has been directed at Shafik both for her perceived leniency towards the protests and for the forceful intervention involving law enforcement. Calls for her resignation have emerged from certain members of Congress, spanning across party lines.
The European Union started a process against ByteDance’s TikTok and warned to stop its new TikTok Lite rewards program, where users can earn points for liking content or inviting friends.
The European Commission, the EU’s executive arm, said TikTok has 24 hours to report about the risks of TikTok Lite or face fines. They also asked TikTok to provide more information by May 3.
The commission is worried that TikTok Lite’s “Task and Reward Program” was started “without properly looking at the risks, especially the risk of getting addicted to the app.”
There are concerns about children being at risk because TikTok might not have good age verification systems.
EU demands TikTok assess the risks of its new feature or face fines.
TikTok didn’t comment when CNBC reached out to them on Monday.
This is the second time the EU has taken action against TikTok. In February, they started investigating if TikTok had broken rules about protecting minors, being transparent about ads, and managing risks from addictive design and harmful content.
EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager said, “Under the Digital Services Act, online platforms have to check and handle any risks their users might face. So, the Commission has started a case to make TikTok show how they are protecting their users from risks on their platform.”
“What is TikTok Lite?”
TikTok Lite is a new version of TikTok that was released in France and Spain recently. It’s designed for users who are 18 years and older.
TikTok Lite launched in France and Spain, aimed at users 18 and older.
The app has a rewards program where users can earn points by doing certain things, like watching videos or following creators. These points can then be swapped for rewards, such as gift cards or Amazon vouchers.
According to the EU’s Digital Services Act, companies with over 45 million active users in the EU have to follow strict rules to fight illegal and harmful content on their platforms.
EU warns TikTok Lite’s rewards could be as harmful and addictive as cigarettes.
Thierry Breton, the EU industry chief, said that while watching short and fast-paced videos might seem fun, it can also expose children to risks like addiction, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and having a short attention span.
He also mentioned that since the EU’s first case against TikTok is still ongoing, the company has launched TikTok Lite, which rewards users for spending more time on the app. Breton is concerned that TikTok Lite might be just as harmful and addictive as “light” cigarettes.
Breton warned that if TikTok doesn’t prove its safety, the EU could suspend TikTok Lite, which they believe might lead to addiction, using measures under the Digital Services Act.
Rishi Sunak expressed deep concern over the treatment of a Jewish man by police during a pro-Palestinian demonstration in London, according to a source from Downing Street.
The Metropolitan Police apologized twice on Friday following an incident where an officer referred to Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) leader Gideon Falter as “openly Jewish.”
Mr. Falter was threatened with arrest
On April 13, Mr. Falter, wearing a kippah skullcap, was threatened with arrest and informed by police that his presence was causing a “breach of peace.” He has since called for the resignation of the Met’s commissioner.
Gideon Falter (Credit: Guy Smallman/Getty Images)
Met Police Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist has reached out to Mr. Falter to offer a private meeting to “apologize to him personally and discuss what more the Met can do to ensure Jewish Londoners feel safe.”
Downing Street stated that the prime minister had viewed the original footage and was “appalled, like everyone else, by the officer’s description of Mr. Falter as ‘openly Jewish.'”
The source noted that while it was appropriate for the Met to apologize, they criticized the force for “completely mishandling” the situation, first issuing an apology that was later retracted before issuing a second statement.
“[The prime minister] expects the Met commissioner to explain how this occurred and what steps will be taken to ensure officers do more to ensure the safety of Jewish communities in London – and for Sadiq Khan to fulfill his duty in holding the Met accountable.”
Footage shows Mr. Falter informing police he was just crossing the road
New footage from Sky News has also surfaced, showing Mr. Falter informing the police officer that he was attempting to cross the road.
The South London for Palestine protest marches towards the US Embassy on April 20, 2024 in London, England. (Credit: Guy Smallman/Getty Images)
In the video, the officer accuses Mr. Falter of deliberately walking “right into the middle” of the march and describes his actions as “disingenuous,” suggesting he was attempting to “antagonize” others.
The officer tells the campaign leader, “My view is you are looking to try and antagonize things,” to which Mr. Falter responds, “I’m not, I’m trying to walk along the pavement.”
Speaking to BBC News, Mr. Falter described the experience as “frightening” and stated it made him feel “like I was being treated like a criminal for being Jewish.”
The CAA chief executive criticized Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, accusing him of “curtailing the rights of law-abiding Londoners including the Jewish community to appease lawless mobs.”
Pro Palestine protest London. (Credit: Guy Smallman/Getty Images)
“I think it’s time for Sir Mark Rowley to go,” he added. “We need a new commissioner who understands that the role of policing is… to enforce the law and if the law says that Londoners can go wherever they want freely, as long as they’re law-abiding, then that’s what they have to enforce.”
Metropolitan Police assures the safety of Jewish Londoners
In an updated statement on Sunday evening, the Met expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety of Jewish Londoners. The force announced that it had invited senior representatives from London’s Jewish communities, officials from the mayor’s office of policing and crime, and members of the House of Lords to an “operational planning exercise.”
Metropolitan Police assures the safety of Jewish Londoners. (Credit: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)
“This would ordinarily be undertaken in private, but in recognition of the need to engage better and provide reassurance we are inviting community leaders to join us,” it said. “This is complex, but we will continue to seek the support and insight of all voices who can help us deliver the service London deserves.”
The Board of Deputies of British Jews is scheduled to meet with the Met commissioner this week following what it described as “a series of high-profile errors”.
A spokesperson said the Met had made “entirely avoidable mistakes”, which have had “a devastating effect on the previously high level of trust held by the UK’s Jewish community in the police”.
Home Secretary James Cleverly has written to Sir Mark and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan asking for an explanation.
Mr. Khan has arranged an urgent meeting with the commissioner on Monday to “discuss community relations”, but it is understood he has full confidence in the commissioner.
On Saturday, a spokesman for the mayor said the Met’s handling of the incident was “concerning” and that the force “must have the confidence of the communities they serve”.
The Met commissioner is also expected to meet with Policing Minister Chris Philp.
Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho labels the incident as a “serious misstep”
Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho said: “What we can’t be saying to particular groups in society is that their very presence is a provocation.”
Secretary of State for Energy Security Claire Coutinho (Credit: Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publishing via Getty Images)
Asked if Sir Mark Rowley should resign, she said she “personally wouldn’t go that far because I haven’t had the conversations with him”, before adding it “is really important that we stand by the Jewish community, and other communities as well”.
Labour’s shadow justice secretary told Sky News she did not think the commissioner should resign.
Shabana Mahmood said she could “understand the strength of feeling” and described the footage as “very concerning”, but believed the commissioner’s resignation was not “the way forward”.
Scotland Yard has previously apologized twice for the officer’s phrase.
Pro-Israel supporters hold placards and wave Israelian flags as they gather opposite to a pro-Palestinian rally. (Credit: JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP)
An initial apology from the Met on Friday was withdrawn after it was criticized as victim-blaming and the Met issued a second statement saying “being Jewish is not a provocation” and apologized again.
It said: “Jewish Londoners must be able to feel safe in this city.”
In the original video clip shot at the march, the police officer said: “You are quite openly Jewish, this is a pro-Palestinian march.
“I’m not accusing you of anything but I’m worried about the reaction to your presence.”
The Met has faced criticism for its handling of a series of pro-Palestinian demonstrations since last October when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented assault on Israel.
Hundreds of gunmen infiltrated communities near the Gaza Strip, and about 1,200 people were killed, with more than 250 taken to Gaza as hostages, according to Israeli tallies.
More than 33,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in air and artillery strikes carried out by the Israeli military in response, Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry has said.
A tragic incident occurred during a motor race in Sri Lanka, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals and injuring at least 18 others, according to reports from local media outlets.
The accident took place at the Fox Hill Supercross event in the town of Diyatalawa on Sunday. Among the casualties were four race officials and spectators, including an eight-year-old girl, as confirmed by the Sri Lankan army.
A tragic motor race incident in Sri Lanka claims seven lives, including four race officials and spectators. (Credit: Stock photo via Getty Images)
The Fox Hill Supercross event is organized by the Sri Lankan military, which operates an academy in Diyatalawa, and this year marked its 28th edition. With a massive turnout, more than 100,000 spectators were present to witness the thrilling races.
Eyewitness videos captured the chaotic aftermath of the incident, showing individuals rushing towards the scene to assist. Following the accident, the event was promptly suspended.
An accident at the Fox Hill Supercross event in Diyatalawa claims seven lives, including an eight-year-old girl. (Credit: Stock photo via Getty Images)
Tragically, two of the victims succumbed to their injuries after being transported to the local military hospital. Several of the injured individuals remain in critical condition, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Currently, authorities have initiated a police investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the accident. As the community mourns the loss of lives and prays for the swift recovery of the injured, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with motorsport events.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently revealed a comprehensive plan aimed at kickstarting the nation’s economy.
Under this initiative, approximately 50 million Thai citizens will receive digital cash handouts of 10,000 baht ($275) each, to be spent at local businesses within their districts.
The ambitious 500-billion-baht ($13.7-billion) plan, primarily funded through allocations from the 2024 and 2025 fiscal budgets, is scheduled to be implemented in the final quarter of the year.
Srettha anticipates that this stimulus, coupled with increased consumer spending, will contribute significantly to GDP growth, projecting an increase of 1.2 to 1.6 percentage points.
Manas Takfaeng has found rice farming difficult in recent years. (Credit: CNA/Jack Board)
This move comes amidst modest GDP growth estimated at 1.5% by the World Bank in December.
Part of the funding will also be sourced from the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives, specifically designated for supporting approximately 17 million farmers.
Notably, the digital cash can only be used within recipients’ respective districts and excludes certain items such as oil, services, and online purchases.
Describing the initiative as a “life-changing policy,” Srettha expressed regret over the delay in its implementation, citing the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency and legality.
Despite being a prominent campaign pledge by Srettha’s Pheu Thai party in the previous general election, the plan has faced criticism from economists who argue its efficacy compared to alternative measures for sustainable economic growth.
Originally proposed as a universal digital wallet scheme for all Thai citizens aged 16 and above, the current plan is limited to lower-income individuals with specific income and savings criteria.
Central Bank of Thailand (Credit: George Johnson0
Initial proposals to finance the plan through borrowing drew concerns over escalating public debt levels.
Meanwhile, the central bank, resisting pressure to stimulate the economy through interest rate cuts, opted to maintain its policy unchanged during a recent meeting. However, analysts anticipate a potential rate cut later in the year due to consecutive months of declining inflation.
Gareth Leather of Capital Economics emphasized the need for additional support for the economy, particularly given Thailand’s high levels of household debt.
Higher interest rates could further deter spending and investment, highlighting the delicate balance between economic stimulus and fiscal prudence.
China’s economic performance exceeded expectations in the first quarter of this year, propelled by supportive policies and increased demand, although challenges in the housing market persisted.
The second-largest global economy expanded by 5.3% annually from January to March, surpassing analysts’ projections of approximately 4.8%, as indicated by data released on Tuesday. Quarter-on-quarter growth stood at 1.6%.
Despite grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, China regained momentum in late 2023, aided by government interventions aimed at stabilizing the housing sector and stimulating investment.
However, this positive data contrasts with recent reports of a 7.5% decline in exports and weakening imports in March compared to the previous year.
Workers wait for transport outside a construction site in Beijing, Tuesday, April 9, 2024. China’s Finance Ministry has denounced a report by Fitch Ratings that kept its sovereign debt rated at A+ but downgraded its outlook to negative, saying in a statement that China’s deficit is at a moderate and reasonable level and risks are under control. (Credit: AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)
Moreover, inflation has cooled, underscoring deflationary pressures stemming from subdued demand amid housing market concerns. Investment in property development fell by 9.5% year-on-year in the first quarter, a slight deterioration from the 9% decline in the preceding quarter.
Sheng Laiyun, deputy commissioner of the National Bureau of Statistics, acknowledged the less optimistic outlook for real estate investment and sales, citing ongoing adjustments within the sector.
Although growth exceeded expectations, Sheng highlighted its uneven nature. Infrastructure investment, including in roads and bridges, rose by 6.5% year-on-year, slightly outpacing the 6% increase in the previous quarter.
Sheng Laiyun, spokesman for the National Bureau of Statistics of China, leaves the venue while being surrounded by reporters after announcing the nation’s gross domestic product data in Beijing. ( Credit: Kyodo)
Fixed investment in factories and equipment grew by 4.5% compared to the same period last year, up from 4.2% in the preceding quarter.
China’s leadership has been steering the economy towards a more balanced growth model, emphasizing greater reliance on consumer demand over investment spending, akin to other major economies.
While retail sales increased by 4.7% in the first quarter, March witnessed a slowdown, with growth at 3.1% year-on-year. Sheng noted disparities in the economic recovery, particularly between small and medium-sized enterprises and larger corporations.
Industrial output expanded by 6.1% year-on-year in the first quarter, albeit with a slower growth rate of 4.5% in March.
According to China economist Louise Loo of Oxford Economics, the robust growth in January-March was driven by strong performance in manufacturing, increased household spending during the Lunar New Year festivities, and supportive policies stimulating investments.
People visit a residential sales office in Shandong Province, China, on Dec. 15, 2022. (Credit: Getty)
However, March indicators suggest a post-holiday slowdown, compounded by uncertainties in external demand, especially evident in export performance.
Loo cautioned that factors such as inventory adjustments, normalized household spending post-holidays, and a cautious approach to government spending could impact growth in the current quarter.
To bolster the economy, policymakers have introduced various fiscal and monetary measures.
China has set an ambitious GDP growth target of approximately 5% for 2024. While such growth typically boosts regional stock markets, Asian shares experienced a sharp decline on Tuesday, following Wall Street’s retreat.
The Shanghai Composite index fell by 1.47%, the Hang Seng in Hong Kong by 2.1%, and the benchmark for Shenzhen’s smaller market by 3.8%.
Despite being positive for neighboring economies reliant on Chinese demand, strong growth figures may signal a restraint on further stimulus measures by the government.
Ukraine’s president has hailed the recent vote by the US House of Representatives to pass a long-awaited $61 billion military aid package, emphasizing that it signifies continued Western support in Ukraine’s fight against the Russian invasion.
Volodymyr Zelenskiy, speaking in an interview with US television, emphasized that Saturday’s vote serves as reassurance that Ukraine will not face a fate akin to “a second Afghanistan,” where the pro-western government collapsed amid a US-led withdrawal in the summer of 2021.
Zelenskiy urged the US Senate to swiftly ratify the aid package, cautioning that Ukraine is fortifying its defenses amid concerns of a potential significant Russian offensive before the fresh supplies reach the frontline.
Zelenskiy reassures Ukraine won’t be “a second Afghanistan” amid Saturday’s crucial vote. (Credit: Alexey Furman/Getty Images)
“We really need to get this to the final point. We need to get it approved by the Senate … so that we get some tangible assistance for the soldiers on the frontline as soon as possible, not in another six months,” he stressed.
US pledges $300 million military aid to Ukraine this year
The Senate is anticipated to emerge from recess on Tuesday to conduct its initial vote on the package, similar to one it had previously approved in February. President Joe Biden has pledged to promptly sign it into law following Congress’s endorsement.
The anticipated approval would bring to a close months of deliberation during which House Republicans aligned with Donald Trump had resisted debating Ukraine aid, which was bundled with funds for Israel and Taiwan, in the lower chamber.
U.S. President Joe Biden (R) with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky (Credit: Dimitar DILKOFF / AFP)
The commitment of the US to provide military aid to Ukraine this year is limited to $300 million, as the previously allocated budget by Congress has been exhausted.
This comes at a time when there has been a deterioration in the frontline situation, leading to the loss of Avdiivka in the eastern Donbas. The shortage of artillery and other munitions has been identified as a contributing factor to these setbacks.
However, opposition from Republicans has waned following Iran’s recent drone and missile attack on Israel, which employed tactics similar to those used by Russia in attacks on Ukraine. This event has underscored, particularly among some right-wing politicians, the necessity of providing further support to both Israel and Ukraine.
US officials have indicated that certain weapons are readily available in European warehouses, poised for swift deployment to Ukraine once President Biden finalizes the specifics of the initial supply, pending all the funding approval.
Zelenskiy seeks US Patriots and Atacms
President Zelenskiy has highlighted his immediate priorities, which include acquiring air-defense systems such as the US-made Patriots and long-range missiles like the Atacms. The House has urged the Pentagon to promptly provide these systems, with the Atacms capable of traveling up to 186 miles (300km).
Ukraine-Russia Conflict (Credit: Sergei SUPINSKY / AFP)
In an interview with NBC News, President Zelenskiy emphasized the critical need for long-range weapons and air defense systems to minimize casualties on the frontline.
He stated, “We need long-range weapons to not lose people on the frontline because we have – we have casualties because we cannot reach that far. Our weapons are not that long-range. We need [that] and air defense. Those are our priorities right now.”
Currently, Ukraine is believed to possess only two Patriot anti-missile systems, with one dedicated to defending Kyiv and the other positioned closer to the frontline, leaving significant parts of the country vulnerable.
Russia’s attacks on power stations cause electricity shortages in Kharkiv and Kyiv
Recent attacks by Russia targeting power stations have resulted in electricity shortages in various regions of Ukraine, including Kharkiv, the country’s second-largest city with a population of 1.3 million. Just over a week ago, a power station south of Kyiv was destroyed in a similar assault.
On Sunday, Moscow accused the US of endangering Ukrainian lives by pushing the country into a prolonged conflict that would ultimately result in defeat for both nations. Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for the Russian foreign ministry, asserted that the US sought to prolong the conflict, leading to significant losses for Ukraine.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. (Credit: Olga MALTSEVA / AFP)
She also alleged that the US was directly engaging in attacks on Russian territory. “Washington’s deeper and deeper immersion in the hybrid war against Russia will turn into a loud and humiliating fiasco for the United States such as Vietnam and Afghanistan,” she added.
Azov brigade chief appreciates Zelenskiy
Bohdan Krotevych, the chief of staff to Ukraine’s Azov brigade, expressed his pleasant surprise at the outcome of the House vote and commended President Zelenskiy’s efforts in lobbying the US and other countries for military support.
However, Krotevych cautioned about potential retaliatory actions from Moscow in the ongoing conflict. “This doesn’t mean that Russia will not start countermeasures as a reaction,” he warned.
One expert, Ben Hodges, a former commanding general of the US Army in Europe, suggested that the immediate significance of the vote was more political than military. Hodges stated, “The strategic effect will be felt immediately in the Kremlin, where they now realize their plan to wait for us to quit has failed.”
Russian attack on Ukraine (Credit: ARIS MESSINIS / AFP)
Russia may have hoped to pressure Ukraine into seeking peace, especially with no US aid forthcoming before November’s presidential election. However, with the approved aid, Ukraine should be able to “stabilize the front, buy time to grow and rebuild their army and build up their defense industrial capacity,” Hodges elaborated.
In Kyiv, Ukrainians expressed their joy at the outcome on a rainy spring day. Pavlo, a 44-year-old IT specialist, voiced his gratitude, stating, “The politicians have made the right choice and this shows that the US takes the lead role in the world scene; I hope that the aid is already somewhere waiting at the border, ready to be on its way.”
Serhii Ivanovich, a retired army colonel and chess enthusiast, emphasized Ukraine’s peaceful nature, forced into a conflict with its larger neighbor. “We have been waiting for this for a very long time. We don’t have enough, we need help. We have the courage, we have the strength but we don’t have the equipment,” he remarked.
The White House said it’s not okay for people to target Jewish students with violence or threats during protests at colleges in the U.S. This includes what happened recently at Columbia University in New York.
A spokesperson from the White House said, “Everyone can protest peacefully, but it’s not okay to threaten or harm Jewish students or the Jewish community. This is wrong and dangerous, and it shouldn’t happen on college campuses or anywhere else in America.”
They also said that echoing the words of terrorist groups, especially after recent violence against Jewish people, is awful. They strongly condemned these actions.
The statement came after news that a rabbi at Columbia University told 300 Jewish students to leave campus before Passover started. But the campus Hillel group disagreed and said students shouldn’t have to leave. They want the university and the city to do more to keep students safe.
Protests at Columbia University (Credits: The Times of Israel)
Protests have been going on at Columbia University since last week when pro-Palestinian protesters set up tents on campus. The university president asked the police to help remove the tents, and over 100 protesters were arrested.
Among those arrested was Isra Hirsi, who is the daughter of Rep. Ilhan Omar. Hirsi goes to Barnard College, which is connected to Columbia.
Many colleges in the U.S. have seen more protests since Hamas’s attacks last October, which killed many people. Israel responded with attacks on Gaza, where many Palestinians live.
President Biden sent a message on Sunday for the start of Passover, a Jewish holiday. He talked about the war between Israel and Hamas, a group in Gaza, and said he supports Israel strongly.
He said, “Even when people are being treated badly, if we keep believing, we can get through it.” He also criticized Hamas for their actions.
Biden repeated his support for Israel’s safety and its right to exist as a country. He also said he’s trying to make a temporary agreement to stop the fighting and free people held by Hamas.
Joe Biden
Biden wants a solution where both Israelis and Palestinians are safe and have a chance for a good life.
He also talked about a recent attack on Israel by Iran and said he’s against antisemitism, which is hate against Jewish people. He said everyone should speak out against it.
Representative Ro Khanna from California spoke up for Speaker Mike Johnson from Louisiana on Sunday. He said Johnson should keep his job, even though some want to remove him because he supported aid for Ukraine and Israel.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene from Georgia leads a group of three Republicans who want to remove Johnson. This could cause chaos in the House, like what happened last year.
Khanna is one of the Democrats who said he wouldn’t support removing Johnson because he helped pass a $95 billion aid package for Ukraine and Israel.
In an interview on ABC’s “This Week,” Khanna praised Johnson for getting the aid package passed. He said they’ve been in Congress together and Johnson has always cared about being civil.
RO Khanna (Credits: House.gov)
Khanna added, “I would actually vote to table any motion to vacate him.” He said other progressive Democrats might also support keeping Johnson in his job.
Khanna said, “I disagree with Speaker Johnson on many issues and have been very critical of him. But he did the right thing here, and he deserves to keep his job until the end of this term.”
Greene hasn’t set a date for the vote on removing Johnson yet. She said she could do it soon, putting more pressure on Johnson as fewer Republicans support him in the House.
Representative Tom Cole from Oklahoma said on Sunday that the effort to remove House Speaker Mike Johnson from his position isn’t a big worry. He mentioned it’s only a few Republican lawmakers who want Johnson gone.
When asked on CBS News’s “Face The Nation” if he thinks the move by Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene to remove Johnson is serious, Cole said, “Well, I take anything seriously. But no, I don’t.”
Cole compared it to last fall when former Speaker Kevin McCarthy was removed, saying only eight Republicans were involved then. He doesn’t think there’s strong support from Democrats to remove Johnson either.
He said, “Both sides now see how dangerous and irresponsible this is.”
Tom Cole (Credits: KFOR)
Cole believes Johnson has done a lot and is respected by many. He said, “Every single Republican voted for him. I don’t think that any other person could have done that at the time other than Mike Johnson. So the reservoir of goodwill is enormous.”
Greene introduced a motion to remove Johnson as Speaker last month after the House passed a spending package. She said on Sunday that she still plans to bring the motion, calling on Johnson to resign.
She said on Fox News’s “Sunday Morning Futures,” “Mike Johnson’s Speakership is over. He needs to do the right thing to resign and allow us to move forward.”
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker said that Chicago is all set to host the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in August, even with worries about big protests against how President Biden has handled the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The DNC is happening from August 19th to 22nd. It’s where the Democratic Party will officially pick President Biden as their choice for president. People are expected to protest a lot against Biden’s actions regarding the war in Gaza. They want him to push for a complete cease-fire.
Pritzker talked about these worries on a CNN show called “State of the Union” with Dana Bash.
He said, “We need to understand that Joe Biden is trying to make peace in the Middle East. He’s trying to stop the fighting between Israel and Gaza and send aid there. When you think about the protests, it’s Joe Biden who wants peace. The Republicans, on the other hand, would rather have more war in the Middle East.”
J. B. Pritzker and Joe Biden
Pritzker mentioned that protest groups who want a cease-fire blocked a highway near Chicago’s O’Hare Airport last week as part of a bigger protest across the country. But the Chicago Police quickly got them off the road faster than other places.
He said, “Our Chicago Police Department got those people off the highway faster than any other city in the United States. And they’re ready for the Democratic Convention.”
Pritzker also said, “We believe in free speech, and we’ll let people protest and say what they want. But we’ll also make sure they can come and go safely.”
Some people worry that the protests against the war might turn into something like what happened in 1968 during the Democratic Convention in Chicago. There were protests against the Vietnam War, and things got violent with the police.
Pritzker said he’s focusing on how the convention went in 1996 in Chicago, which was a good one. He said, “We had a great convention in 1996. It was one of the best in my lifetime. So, I think this one will be more like that.”
He added, “In the Democratic Party, we support people’s right to protest and speak up.”
Arizona’s House Speaker Ben Toma is having a tough time as he tries to deal with the aftermath of Arizona’s Supreme Court decision. The court recently upheld a very old law from 1864 that bans most abortions in Arizona.
Since the court’s decision, Toma has helped stop Democrats in the House from trying to get rid of the ban, saying they can’t do it because of the rules.
National Republicans, including former President Trump and Kari Lake, want the old ban removed. If it goes away, a newer law from 2022 would take its place, allowing abortions up to 15 weeks into pregnancy.
Ben Toma with Attendeed (Credits: AZCentral)
But Toma also wants to win a Republican primary for Congress. In that race, voters and groups against abortion might not like it if he gives in and supports a less strict ban on abortion.
Toma and other Republicans in Arizona have always thought abortion is wrong and should be against the law. But the Supreme Court’s decision to change things has made it tricky for both Republicans and Democrats.
Last year, Toma supported the 1864 law in a document he sent to the state Supreme Court.
But now, Toma is learning that being against abortion might not be the best idea politically. If people get really mad about the old ban, it could hurt Republicans’ chances of winning in Arizona.
Toma says there’s no hurry to decide on getting rid of the ban because the Legislature still has other work to finish first.
Ben Toma (Credits: AZCentral)
Arizona is now in a big fight over abortion rights because of the court’s decision. The law from 1864 says almost all abortions are illegal in Arizona, and doctors who do them can go to jail.
Before the court’s decision, Trump said each state should make its own rules about abortion. But after the decision, he said it went too far and needed to be changed.
Kari Lake, who wants to be a senator, also doesn’t like the court’s decision. She’s trying to get lawmakers to change the law.
But Toma has stopped two attempts in the House to talk about getting rid of the old law. Only one other Republican voted with Democrats to try to talk about it.
In the Senate, two Republicans joined Democrats to try to change the law.
Toma told a news website that he doesn’t think anything will happen with the old law in the House.
Another Republican, David Cook, thinks there are enough votes to change the law next week, even if Toma doesn’t want to.
Ben Toma (Credits: AZCentral)
Republicans who know Toma say he will probably keep saying no to changing the old law because that’s what people who might vote for him want.
Kirk Adams, who used to be the Speaker of the House in Arizona, says Toma is trying to do what’s best for him personally and for the Republican Party.
But if Toma doesn’t change the law, it could mean Republicans lose their majority in the Legislature.
Some Republicans say Toma should find a way to change the law a little bit, even if he doesn’t want to, because otherwise, it could hurt Republicans in the election.
A consultant who works with Republicans says that might be true, but Toma might also want to show voters he really cares about stopping abortion.
Some Republicans say abortion isn’t like other issues where you can change your mind. Matt Salmon, who used to be in the Legislature and Congress, says it’s a very serious issue for some people, not just a political game.
Tesla has once again slashed its prices in several key markets, including the US, China, and Germany, amid declining sales for the electric car titan led by billionaire Elon Musk.
This move follows a significant drop in global vehicle deliveries during the first quarter of this year.
Chinese EV manufacturers fiercely compete
Competition among electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers has escalated, with Chinese companies particularly vying fiercely for market share.
Tesla is set to announce its financial results for the first quarter of 2024 after the US market closes on Tuesday.
Elon Musk took to the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, stating that “Tesla prices must change frequently to match production with demand”.
Elon Musk, co-founder and chief executive officer of Tesla Inc. (Credit: Robyn Beck / POOL / AFP)
In China, the company reduced the starting price of the revamped Model 3 by 14,000 yuan ($1,934; £1,562) to 231,900 yuan.
Meanwhile, prices of the Model Y, Model X, and Model S vehicles in the US were cut by $2,000 (£1,616) on Friday.
According to Reuters news agency, there were also price reductions in numerous other countries across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
An EV price war
Tesla initiated an EV price war over a year ago when it aggressively lowered prices, sacrificing profit margins in the process.
While rivals in China, such as BYD and Nio, have been rolling out cheaper models, Tesla has been slow to refresh its aging lineup. Additionally, Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi recently launched its first EV last month.
Tesla initiated an EV price war (Credit: Stock photo/Getty Images)
Last week, Tesla announced plans to lay off over 10% of its global workforce.
Over the weekend, Musk announced the postponement of his planned trip to India, where he was scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing “very heavy Tesla obligations”.
On Friday, the company issued a recall for thousands of its new Cybertrucks due to safety concerns. The recall was prompted by the risk of accelerator pedals becoming trapped by the interior trim, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Tesla’s shares have plummeted by more than 40% since the beginning of this year.
The recent report of Consumer Reports reveals that among the tested fruits and vegetables, about 20% had a lot of harmful pesticides in them.
Consumer Reports released the report, calling it their most thorough review of pesticides in food ever. They looked at 59 common fruits and vegetables, including fresh, canned, dried, and frozen ones.
“Our new findings are concerning. Pesticides were a big problem in 20% of the foods we looked at,” said Consumer Reports.
The report included bell peppers, blueberries, potatoes, and strawberries. It also mentioned green beans, which had pesticides that hadn’t been allowed in the U.S. for over ten years.
Consumer Reports pointed out that produce from other countries, especially Mexico, often had high levels of pesticides.
Consumer Reports studied seven years of data from the Department of Agriculture. Every year, the department tests a selection of fruits and veggies grown in or brought to the U.S. for pesticide residue, both conventional and organic.
A dozen foods raise bigger concerns, with limited servings recommended for kids and pregnant women. (Credits: Shutterstock)
Farmers use certain chemicals to keep bugs, fungi, and weeds under control. However, some of these chemicals can be harmful to health.
Consumer Reports mentioned that some well-known pesticides, like DDT, are banned in the U.S. However, they argued that regulators are slow to ban others. Also, when a dangerous chemical gets banned, some companies and growers switch to other options that could also be harmful.
Consumer Reports has been watching pesticide use on produce for a long time and has noticed this happening again and again.
However, they found that nearly two-thirds of the foods, especially organic ones, had very little to worry about in terms of pesticides.
Their analysis showed that most of the risks come from just a few pesticides, mainly found in a small number of foods grown on a small part of U.S. farmland.
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) mentioned that pesticides are important for ensuring we have enough affordable food, especially fruits and veggies. (Credits: Gao.gov)
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) mentioned that pesticides are important for ensuring we have enough affordable food, especially fruits and veggies.
When the EPA decides if a pesticide is safe or not, they rely on the best available science. But they noted that science is always changing, and new info can change our understanding of how pesticides affect us.
The EPA said that out of over 29,000 food samples tested by the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture), more than 99% had levels of pesticides below what the EPA considers safe.
For the remaining 1%, the EPA explained that many of these detections were for pesticides not meant for use on those foods or were canceled in the U.S., which is a problem with enforcement.
The Risk Use of Pesticides Involves
Consumer Reports found that about 16 out of 25 fruits and about 21 out of 34 vegetables had low levels of pesticide risk. This means that kids and pregnant women can safely eat more than three servings a day of these foods, according to food safety experts at Consumer Reports.
Ten foods were at a moderate risk level. This means it’s safe to eat up to three servings a day.
However, a dozen foods raised bigger concerns. For these, kids and pregnant women should have less than one serving a day of high-risk fruits and vegetables. They should also have less than half a serving per day of very high-risk ones, as suggested by Consumer Reports.
Kids and pregnant women can safely consume more than three servings daily. (Credits: Shutterstock)
Consumer Reports also recommended that everyone else should limit their consumption of these foods too. They made a list of six conventionally grown fruits and vegetables where pesticides are a serious problem and suggested possible substitutes for them.
When it comes to choosing fruits and vegetables with lower pesticide risks, Consumer Reports suggests some alternatives to certain commonly consumed items. For blueberries, they recommend opting for organic ones, while domestic strawberries are also considered a safer choice.
Bell peppers are best chosen in organic form, or they should be eaten sparingly. Additionally, hot peppers carry a high risk. Sweet potatoes are suggested as a low-risk alternative to regular potatoes.
For green beans, snap peas or organic domestically grown green beans are recommended. When it comes to kale and mustard greens, going organic is advised, and broccoli is another very low-risk option.
While fresh spinach is a better choice, it still poses a moderate risk. Lastly, for watermelon, choosing organic varieties is the safest option, and cantaloupe is also considered to have a very low risk.
According to a new report, the cost of buying a new house just reached a new high as mortgage rates went up to the highest level this year.
A report from Redfin shows that because of high mortgage rates and expensive home prices, the median monthly housing payment has gone up to a record $2,775 – an 11% increase compared to the same time last year.
“Buying a home is getting more expensive with mortgage rates going up and home prices staying high,” said Ben Ayers, a senior economist at Nationwide. “Even though there’s a strong demand for homes because of demographics and a good job market, many people buying for the first time can’t afford it because of high financing rates and increasing prices.”
Home supply is down 34.3% since pre-pandemic levels. (Credits: Home Supply)
Several factors are driving the affordability crisis. First, there’s been a shortage of homes in the country due to years of not building enough. This problem got worse when mortgage rates went up quickly and construction materials became expensive.
Higher mortgage rates in the past three years have made it tough for sellers. Some locked in very low mortgage rates, like 3% or less, during the pandemic and don’t want to sell now. This makes the supply of homes even smaller and gives fewer choices to people wanting to buy.
Some homebuyers rush due to fear of further rate increases. (Credits: iStock)
Economists think mortgage rates will stay high for the first half of 2024. They might start dropping only when the Federal Reserve lowers rates. But even then, rates probably won’t go back to the very low levels we saw during the pandemic.
Also, investors aren’t sure if the Federal Reserve will raise rates this year because of several reports showing higher inflation than expected.
“Some house hunters are hoping to buy now because they’re concerned rates could rise more, and others have grown accustomed to raised rates and pushed down their home-price budget accordingly,” the Redfin report said.
Freddie Mac, which buys mortgages, announced Thursday that the average rate on a 30-year loan this week went over 7% for the first time this year, going up from 6.88% to 7.1%. Although this is lower than the peak of 7.79% in the fall, it’s still much higher than the lows of just 3% during the pandemic.
According to another report from Realtor.com, the supply of available homes is still down by a shocking 34.3% compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic started in early 2020.
A separate survey by Zillow found that most homeowners are much more likely to sell their home if their mortgage rate is 5% or higher. Right now, about 80% of people with mortgages have a rate below 5%.
Bill Gates recently sold one of his homes in Medina, Washington. The house is 2,430 square feet and was listed for sale at almost $4.989 million in March.
The exact selling price hasn’t been disclosed. Gates worked with RE/MAX Northwest to sell the house, and it was marked as “pending” on their listing.
The house offers stunning views of Lake Washington, the Seattle skyline, and the Olympic Mountains. It’s situated on a 0.61-acre lot and includes a large deck and a zen garden.
It boasts stunning views of Lake Washington, the Seattle skyline, and the Olympic Mountains. (Credits: Realtor.com)
Inside, there are four bedrooms and three full bathrooms. The house features radiant heated floors as well.
Bill Gates still owns another home in Medina, which is famously known as “Xanadu 2.0.” This massive house spans 66,000 square feet and was built with an investment of tens of millions of dollars by the tech billionaire.
The property includes a large deck, a zen garden, four bedrooms, and three full bathrooms. (Credits: Realtor.com)
Medina is located in King County, where Microsoft has its headquarters.
Gates, who spent 15 years as CEO of Microsoft until 2000, stepped down from the company’s board in 2020 to focus more on his philanthropic work, particularly in global health, development, education, and addressing climate change.
According to Bloomberg, Gates still holds about 1% of Microsoft shares even after his step down.
