British carmakers are set to meet with ministers on Friday morning to discuss their response to the upcoming 25% tariffs on car imports announced by US President Donald Trump, which are set to take effect on April 3. The UK government is working to secure exemptions from these tariffs, though some car companies fear it may now be too late to delay the measure and are instead focusing on exploring support options.

The potential impact of these tariffs on the UK economy is significant. The government’s official forecaster, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), has warned that such trade taxes could reduce economic growth by as much as 1% in the worst-case scenario, potentially wiping out £9.9 billion of the UK government’s fiscal headroom.

The UK government’s response has been cautious. Treasury minister Darren Jones stated that the UK would not engage in a “trade war” with the US and would take a “different approach” compared to other nations. This contrasts with countries like Germany, which has taken a firmer stance against the tariffs, urging Europe to “respond firmly.”

For the automotive industry, the tariffs represent a significant threat. The UK’s car exports to the US, worth £9 billion, would be heavily affected. Companies like Ineos Automotive, whose biggest market is the US, are particularly vulnerable, as their manufacturing is based in the EU. Ineos CEO Lynn Calder expressed frustration with the EU’s failure to negotiate with Trump and warned that the EU must decide whether it wants to maintain a viable automotive industry.

The tariffs are set to hit the car sector in two stages: the first on April 3 for vehicles, followed by tariffs on parts a month later. This could disrupt UK carmakers, particularly as UK car production was already down by 12% in February compared to the previous year. The industry is likely to ask for government support to help mitigate the economic impact.

The broader global context includes other countries, such as France and Canada, vowing to retaliate against the US tariffs. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, a former Bank of England governor, has expressed his country’s intent to “fight” these trade measures, signaling a potential breakdown in long-standing Canada-US relations.

The UK is still negotiating with the US over the full range of tariffs, not just those affecting the car industry. However, much of the outcome will depend on the stance taken by President Trump, who has made it clear that he does not intend to offer carve-outs for car imports, despite ongoing global discussions on “reciprocal tariffs.”

A powerful earthquake struck Southeast Asia on Friday, causing significant damage in both Thailand and Myanmar. The quake, with a magnitude of 7.7, hit at lunchtime and originated at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). Its epicenter was located around 17.2 km from Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. This earthquake caused a skyscraper under construction in Bangkok to collapse, leading to the death of at least one person and dozens of workers being rescued from the rubble.

In Bangkok, the earthquake caused panic, with people rushing into the streets in a state of distress. Many were hotel guests who had been caught off guard, some still in bathrobes or swimming costumes as water cascaded down from an elevated pool at a luxury hotel due to the tremor.

In Myanmar, the quake also impacted the city of Mandalay and other areas, although there was no immediate confirmation of casualties. Myanmar’s Fire Services Department has begun conducting checks in Yangon for casualties and damage, but no detailed reports have come out yet.

The earthquake was followed by a strong aftershock, adding to the devastation. At the time of reporting, the situation was still developing, and authorities in both countries were working to assess the full scale of the damage.

King Charles III is undergoing treatment for cancer, which was publicly acknowledged by Buckingham Palace in February 2024. He recently experienced some temporary side effects from his treatment, leading to a brief hospital stay on Thursday. Despite this, the King is reported to be in good spirits, continuing his work at Clarence House, including handling state papers and making calls from his study. He has canceled a tour of Birmingham, which was scheduled for Friday, on medical advice.

The palace emphasized that the King’s health is on track, describing the hospital visit as a “most minor bump” in his recovery. They also reassured the public that this is not a serious setback, and while the King’s cancer treatment is ongoing, he remains committed to his duties, with engagements planned for the future. His health issues, however, serve as a reminder of his personal challenges as he continues with his public responsibilities.

Additionally, the Queen Camilla attended a reception in Wembley on Thursday but did not join the King during his brief hospital visit. The royal family and officials, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, have wished the King well during this time. While no specifics about the side effects were disclosed, the palace appears focused on reassuring the public about the King’s recovery and ongoing commitment to his royal duties.

The stabbing incident in central Amsterdam, particularly near Dam Square, is a developing story, and it’s concerning that five people have been injured. The deployment of an emergency helicopter and the cordoning off of the area indicate the seriousness of the situation. While the motive remains unclear, the police have already arrested a suspect, which could potentially lead to further details once investigations progress.

The situation also highlights the importance of public cooperation, as authorities are encouraging anyone with footage or images of the incident to come forward. Hopefully, the injured individuals receive the medical attention they need, and more information will be available soon.

Do you have any more updates on the situation, or would you like to follow the developments further?

The ongoing discussions about sanctions on Russia and the potential for peace talks are shaping up to be a crucial moment in the war. The coordinated stance from European leaders—particularly from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany—against lifting sanctions on Russia is a clear signal that Europe remains firm in its approach to applying pressure on Moscow until peace is achieved. This unified message contrasts with the more cautious tone of the U.S., where officials are still evaluating Russia’s demands and conditions, especially regarding the Black Sea ceasefire.

Zelensky’s position, which calls for continued and even increased sanctions on Russia, underscores his belief that economic pressure is one of the few effective tools to force Russia into meaningful negotiations. His concerns that Russia is trying to delay the process with unrealistic conditions show his frustration with the lack of concrete progress, and he rightly points out that lifting sanctions could embolden Russia to press on with its territorial ambitions.

The mention of potential “reassurance forces” by France and the United Kingdom is also significant. While these forces would not replace Ukrainian troops, their presence would act as a deterrent to further Russian aggression and provide some security assurance should a ceasefire be established. This idea of a “reassurance force” suggests that even as talks about a peace deal continue, Western allies are already thinking about long-term commitments to Ukraine’s security—especially in the event that U.S. involvement remains uncertain.

The overall situation remains very delicate. The sanctions continue to be a critical tool in limiting Russia’s ability to prosecute the war, but there is concern that without diplomatic breakthroughs, the war could drag on indefinitely. How long do you think sanctions alone can effectively pressure Russia, and do you see the idea of reassurance forces as a viable path forward if a ceasefire is reached?

President Zelensky’s statement highlights the ongoing tension in Ukraine’s fight against Russia and the broader international diplomatic struggle. He is right to emphasize that lifting sanctions on Russia at this stage would send the wrong message and undermine the leverage the international community currently has to push for a serious peace agreement.

Zelensky’s criticism of Russia’s demands for unrealistic conditions—such as for a ceasefire in the Black Sea—underscores the complexity of the negotiations. Russia’s insistence on unreasonable terms, while rejecting proposals for peace, continues to delay any meaningful diplomatic solution. Zelensky makes a crucial point in arguing that sanctions are one of the few effective tools to pressure Russia into genuine talks, and without them, the risk of a breakdown in future negotiations becomes even more significant.

His call for continued support from international partners and for sanctions to remain until Russia’s aggression stops is a stance that aligns with Ukraine’s need for long-term pressure on Russia to cease its military actions and respect territorial integrity. The prospect of lifting sanctions prematurely could indeed have serious consequences, both in terms of diplomacy and the integrity of future peace agreements.

Do you think international pressure, particularly through sanctions, will ultimately succeed in forcing Russia to engage in meaningful peace talks, or is there a risk that it could backfire and prolong the conflict?

The incident involving the Houthis launching missiles towards Israel marks a significant escalation in the ongoing regional tensions. The interception of the missiles by the Israeli military, along with the claims of the Houthis targeting Ben Gurion airport and military sites near Tel Aviv, reflects the growing complexity of the conflict in the Middle East.

The Houthis, a group backed by Iran, have been involved in missile and drone attacks targeting various entities, including Israel, as part of their broader support for Hamas. This ties into the larger regional conflict where Iran supports groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, all of which are aligned against Israeli interests.

Additionally, the U.S. airstrikes against Houthi strongholds in Yemen since March 15, coupled with President Trump’s statements on holding Iran accountable, show the increasing international involvement and the multifaceted nature of these conflicts.

Do you think the continued involvement of regional powers like Iran will further escalate tensions in the Middle East?

The passage of these constitutional amendment bills, including the creation of the Office of the Prime Minister and President in Nigeria, marks a significant step toward potential political restructuring. The separation of the roles of head of government and head of state, which is being considered in the bill, could bring a shift in how Nigeria’s executive branch operates, much like parliamentary systems in other countries. It could also impact the balance of power and governance dynamics in the country.

The bills that focus on increasing the representation of women in the National Assembly and state houses of assembly are especially notable, as they aim to address gender inequality in political representation. This change could provide more opportunities for women in Nigerian politics, potentially driving more inclusive decision-making.

The proposed changes regarding pre-election petition matters and the establishment of pre-election tribunals might also help streamline the electoral process, making it more efficient and transparent. These reforms could further stabilize Nigeria’s democracy and enhance electoral credibility.

The creation of new states like Wan and Gobir, and the review of the Federal Capital Territory’s electoral status, reflect ongoing debates over the country’s federal structure, which could have both political and administrative consequences.

Altogether, with 113 bills now under consideration, these amendments indicate an active effort to fine-tune Nigeria’s Constitution, reflecting evolving political needs.

What are your thoughts on the proposed separation of powers between the Prime Minister and President? Do you think it will improve governance in Nigeria?

This is truly heartbreaking news. Bisola Ajimobi Kola-Daisi’s passing at the age of 42, particularly so soon after the loss of her father, former Governor Abiola Ajimobi, is devastating. She was a prominent figure and had a significant role as Special Adviser to the Minister of Budget and Planning, Atiku Bagudu. Her family and loved ones must be going through an incredibly tough time.

It’s always so tragic when someone so young and seemingly with so much ahead of them is taken so suddenly. My condolences go out to her family and everyone who knew her.

Have you seen any further details about her life or career that you’d like to discuss?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed hope that the United States will “stand strong” against Russian demands to lift sanctions as a condition for a ceasefire in the Black Sea. Moscow has insisted that Western sanctions on Russia’s food and fertilizer trade be lifted before the maritime truce, which was announced earlier this week, can take effect. The Russian government also requested the removal of financial restrictions and the restoration of Russia’s access to the Swift international payment system, a crucial financial network.

While the White House confirmed that Russian and Ukrainian delegations agreed to a ceasefire after talks with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia, the Kremlin’s subsequent statement outlined its conditions. Zelensky, however, expressed concern that some in the U.S. might be influenced by Russian narratives, undermining the bipartisan support his country has received. He made it clear that Ukraine cannot accept these Russian-driven narratives.

The U.S. government, through former President Donald Trump, has acknowledged Moscow’s request and stated that they are “looking at” the possibility of easing sanctions. However, the European Union has firmly rejected lifting any sanctions unless Russia withdraws its troops from Ukraine’s internationally recognized territory unconditionally. Zelensky, in a panel interview in Paris, also voiced concerns about the role of U.S. figures like Trump envoy Steve Witkoff, who dismissed European efforts to create a “coalition of the willing” to support Ukraine. Zelensky questioned Witkoff’s experience and pointed out that his background in real estate was far removed from the complexities of international diplomacy.

During the interview, Zelensky was asked how history would remember him—whether as the man who saved Ukraine or as the one who let it fall. He responded by saying that it was not his concern how history would judge him; his focus remains on defending Ukraine and ensuring his children can walk freely in their streets. He reaffirmed his commitment to defending Ukraine for as long as he could.

On the issue of Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine, now “battle-hardened” by the ongoing war, would strengthen the alliance, though he acknowledged that the Trump administration had ruled out membership for Kyiv in the past.

Zelensky’s return to Europe is part of his ongoing effort to rally support from European nations as the war in Ukraine continues. European leaders have been slow to commit substantial military support, traditionally relying on the U.S. for military capacity. However, the changing geopolitical dynamics, particularly after comments from Trump, have led European leaders to realize they may need to act more independently in the future.

In a sign of continued European support, French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a €2bn military aid package for Ukraine, and Macron has also made it clear that Moscow cannot “dictate the conditions” for peace. Ahead of a European leaders’ meeting in Paris, which will also include British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Macron said it was too early to consider lifting sanctions on Russia. The gathering aims to discuss the next steps for supporting Ukraine and the potential for a ceasefire agreement.

Poland has taken a controversial step by temporarily suspending the right of migrants arriving via its border with Belarus to apply for asylum. This decision comes after a bill was signed into law by President Andrzej Duda, allowing Polish authorities to suspend asylum applications for up to 60 days at a time. Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized that this move would be enacted “without a moment’s delay,” asserting that the changes were necessary to bolster Poland’s border security.

The law has sparked significant criticism from human rights organizations like Human Rights Watch, which has condemned the bill as a violation of Poland’s international and EU obligations. They argue that the law could lead to a complete closure of the Poland-Belarus border and exacerbate the already unlawful practices of pushbacks by Polish authorities, where migrants are sent back without due process. The human rights group has urged the EU to take legal action against Poland if the law is implemented.

Polish authorities, however, have defended the law, stating that the suspension would only be temporary and applied to those who pose a security threat, particularly large groups of migrants attempting to storm the border. There will be exceptions for vulnerable individuals, including unaccompanied minors, pregnant women, the elderly, the sick, and those who could face “real risk of serious harm” if returned to their country. The government has specifically pointed to Belarus, accusing it of deliberately orchestrating migration flows to destabilize Poland and the wider EU.

Tusk has dismissed the criticism, asserting that the policy does not violate human rights or the right to asylum but rather addresses the issue of organized groups of migrants illegally crossing the border, which, according to Poland, are encouraged by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

Since 2021, Poland, along with other EU countries like Lithuania, Latvia, and Finland, has faced a sharp increase in irregular migration from Belarus and Russia. In response, Poland has deployed thousands of troops and border guards to secure its frontier and has constructed a 5.5-meter-high steel fence along 186 kilometers of the border. Despite these measures, many migrants have been stranded, and human rights groups estimate that over a hundred people have died along the border since 2021.

Poland, along with other EU nations on the eastern flank, and the European Commission, have accused Belarus and Russia of “weaponizing” migration, creating a new route into the EU in an attempt to destabilize the bloc. The situation remains highly contentious, with ongoing debates about how best to balance national security concerns with the protection of human rights.

The situation in South Sudan has become increasingly tense as First Vice-President Riek Machar has been placed under house arrest by the government, marking a significant development in the strained relationship between him and President Salva Kiir. The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement In Opposition (SPLM/IO), led by Machar, claims that an armed convoy, including the country’s defense minister, entered Machar’s residence in Juba, disarmed his bodyguards, and detained him along with his wife, Angelina Teny, the interior minister. This action has sparked concerns about potential violations of the constitution and the peace agreement signed in 2018.

The United Nations has expressed alarm over the situation, warning that South Sudan could be on the verge of returning to civil war, a situation that would have devastating consequences for the country and the region. Since the 2013-2018 civil war that led to almost 400,000 deaths, the country has struggled to maintain peace, with ethnic tensions and sporadic violence still fueling unrest.

The recent actions against Machar and his party have heightened fears of a full-scale return to conflict. International actors, including the UK and US embassies, have responded by reducing diplomatic staff and advising citizens to leave the country. The Norwegian and German embassies have closed operations in Juba altogether.

The potential for widespread conflict is compounded by renewed fighting between the forces loyal to Machar and President Kiir in the northern region of Nasir, which is rich in oil resources. This standoff, combined with the arrest and the political turmoil, has pushed South Sudan to a fragile breaking point. The global community is closely monitoring the developments, fearing that the fragile peace achieved since 2018 could collapse if the conflict escalates further.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened to seize parts of Gaza if Hamas does not release hostages. This came after Hamas warned that the hostages would return in coffins if Israel did not halt its bombardment of Gaza. The situation escalated after Israel resumed military operations on March 18 following a fragile ceasefire. Israel aims to pressure Hamas into releasing the remaining hostages, and Netanyahu emphasized that further refusal to release hostages would lead to Israel increasing its pressure, including potential territorial seizures in Gaza.

The Sudanese army has announced that it has successfully recaptured Khartoum’s airport from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking another significant territorial gain in the ongoing civil war. Gen. Mohamed Abdel Rahman al-Bilawi stated that the troops have fully secured the airport and may be able to clear the remaining RSF fighters by the end of the day.

The army’s advances have been swift, following their recapture of the presidential palace on Friday. This has led to celebrations among civilians in the streets of Khartoum. For nearly two years, the RSF had controlled most of the capital since the war erupted in April 2023. The conflict has led to widespread devastation, with hundreds of thousands of lives lost and millions displaced.

In addition to retaking the airport, the Sudanese army also announced the seizure of Manshiya Bridge, the last RSF-controlled bridge in Khartoum, and a military camp in the RSF’s southern stronghold.

However, despite these gains, the war is far from over. The RSF still holds nearly all of the Darfur region in western Sudan. Earlier this week, reports indicated that Sudanese airstrikes had bombed a market in Darfur, killing dozens of civilians, highlighting the continuing toll of the conflict.

The Nigerian Army’s Sector 2 troops, in partnership with the Air Component of the Joint Task Force Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), successfully rescued 101 individuals who had been abducted by bandits in Katsina and Zamfara States. The operation led to the neutralization of 10 terrorists during an encounter in the Faru district of Maradun LGA.

The operation started in Kankara LGA, Katsina State, where troops launched a deliberate assault on a terrorists’ enclave at Pauwa High Ground. This action resulted in the death of three bandits and the rescue of 84 kidnap victims, who were handed over to local government authorities for further care.

In Zamfara State, the troops responded to intelligence on terrorist activities in the Bagabuzu area, leading to the neutralization of 7 terrorists and the recovery of a motorcycle. Additionally, 17 captives, including those abducted by a notorious terrorist kingpin, were rescued from villages in Shinkafi LGA and are now receiving medical care.

The OPFY spokesperson, Lt. Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, reiterated the operation’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of communities in both Katsina and Zamfara States.

Nigerian actress Lilian Afegbai recently called out her Lagos-based friend for pricing the aso ebi fabric for her wedding at $1,200. In a post shared on Instagram, Afegbai expressed her shock upon seeing the price tag, initially thinking it was in Naira, but realizing it was actually in dollars after checking the link.

She questioned the growing trend of selling aso ebi in dollars, pointing out how excessive the practice has become. She also emphasized that weddings should not be about extravagant costs, urging people to remember that life continues after the wedding day. Afegbai’s post has sparked a conversation about the rising costs associated with Nigerian weddings, particularly the use of foreign currency for traditional ceremonies.