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Trump Claims Role in Averting India-Pakistan Nuclear War in State of the Union Address

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

President Donald Trump claimed during his State of the Union address Tuesday night that Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif informed him that 35 million people would have perished had he not intervened to prevent a nuclear conflict between India and Pakistan following the April 2024 Pahalgam terror attack.

“In my first 10 months, I ended eight wars… Pakistan and India would have had a nuclear war. 35 million people, said the Prime Minister of Pakistan, would have died if it were not for my involvement,” Trump stated during his address to a joint session of Congress.

The claim repeats assertions Trump has made more than 80 times since May 10, 2025, when he initially announced a “full and immediate” ceasefire agreement between the two nations, attributing it to U.S. Mediation.

India has consistently denied any U.S. Involvement in the ceasefire agreement, maintaining that the request for cessation of hostilities originated with the Director General of Military Operations in Pakistan. Indian officials state the ceasefire was achieved bilaterally.

The conflict was triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2024, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. India responded with Operation Sindoor, a targeted military operation aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure across the Line of Control and within Pakistan. Following Operation Sindoor, Pakistan launched retaliatory drone and UCAV attacks targeting Indian airbases and logistical facilities.

During the inaugural Board of Peace meeting, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif publicly praised Trump’s role, calling him “a man of peace” and “saviour of the people of South Asia.” Sharif stated that Trump’s intervention “potentially averted the loss of millions of people’s lives.”

In his address, Trump likewise addressed ongoing international conflicts, stating his administration was “working hard” to end the conflict in Ukraine, a war he asserted “would have never happened if I were President.” Regarding Iran, Trump indicated a continued preference for a diplomatic solution but warned against allowing Iran to develop nuclear weapons, calling it “the world’s number one sponsor of terror.”

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Prince Andrew: Will He Be Removed From Royal Line of Succession?

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

London – For nearly a century, the British line of succession has remained largely untouched. However, that could change as the government considers legal action to formally remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, from the list of those in line to the throne. Despite being stripped of his royal titles in October due to his connections with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the Duke of York remains eighth in line to become monarch.

The possibility of altering the line of succession comes amid renewed scrutiny following Mountbatten-Windsor’s recent arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Police detained him last week, prompted by the release of millions of documents related to Epstein by the U.S. Department of Justice. These files reportedly include accusations that he shared confidential trade information with Epstein during his tenure as a U.K. Trade envoy from 2001 to 2011.

While Mountbatten-Windsor, 66, was released without charge after approximately 11 hours in custody, the investigation continues. The government is not ruling out further action, according to Darren Jones, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s chief secretary, who told lawmakers on Monday, “The government is clear that we are not ruling out action in respect of the line of succession at this stage, and we will consider whether any further steps are required in due course.” Any changes would only occur after the police investigation concludes.

Removing a royal from the line of succession is a complex undertaking, requiring an act of Parliament and potentially the approval of 14 Commonwealth countries where King Charles III also serves as head of state. The last time such a measure was taken was in 1936, when King Edward VIII abdicated to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee, and was subsequently removed from the succession, along with his descendants.

The Path to Removal: A Parliamentary Challenge

An act of Parliament is necessary to remove Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession. Currently, Prince William is the heir apparent, followed by his three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Prince Harry and his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are fifth, sixth, and seventh in line, respectively. Mountbatten-Windsor currently holds the eighth position, with his daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, at ninth and twelfth.

The Liberal Democrats have voiced strong support for removing Mountbatten-Windsor, with party leader Ed Davey stating last week, “I think it would be intolerable for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to succeed to the crown. It’s not as remote as some people think.”

International Implications and Commonwealth Support

Any alteration to the line of succession extends beyond the United Kingdom, requiring the backing of 14 Commonwealth countries where King Charles III is head of state. Australia and New Zealand have already indicated their support for a U.K. Government plan to exclude Mountbatten-Windsor. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote to Starmer, stating, “These are grave allegations and Australians take them seriously. I agree with His Majesty that the law must now take its full course and there must be a full, fair and proper investigation.” NBC News reported on this support.

While the U.K. Government has not yet received similar commitments from other Commonwealth nations, including Canada, Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Tuvalu, the process highlights the international scope of the issue. Robert Hazell, a politics professor at University College London, noted that some countries may require constitutional amendments, while others can implement changes through legislation. He also expressed skepticism about the urgency, given Mountbatten-Windsor’s relatively distant position in the line of succession. “The last time this happened was for the Succession to the Crown Act 2013, which made the law of royal succession gender neutral,” Hazell said. “It took two years of protracted negotiations for all the different countries to amend their own laws or constitutions.”

Impact on Mountbatten-Windsor’s Daughters

A key question remains regarding the potential impact of any changes on Mountbatten-Windsor’s daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, and their children. Hazell explained that the effect on his daughters would depend on how the legislation is framed.

King Charles III has not publicly stated his position on the matter, emphasizing the importance of allowing the investigation to run its course. He affirmed, “My family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.” However, reports in the British media, citing an unnamed palace source in The Times of London, suggest the royal family would not oppose a parliamentary decision on the matter.

The unfolding situation represents a significant challenge for the British monarchy, raising questions about its future and the role of individuals within the royal family. As the police investigation progresses and the government considers its options, the debate over Mountbatten-Windsor’s place in the line of succession is likely to intensify. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether a historic change will be made to the rules governing the British throne.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.

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EU Fails to Sanction Russia as Hungary Objects – Ukraine War Update

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Brussels – A coordinated effort to impose new sanctions on Russia and approve a substantial financial aid package for Ukraine faltered Monday, as Hungary unexpectedly blocked both measures on the eve of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The impasse underscores growing divisions within the European Union regarding strategy toward Moscow and support for Kyiv.

The stalled sanctions package, the 20th proposed by the EU, aimed to tighten the economic pressure on Russia by targeting its shadow fleet and energy revenues. Simultaneously, a proposed €90 billion ($106 billion) loan was intended to bolster Ukraine’s military and economic stability over the next two years. The failure to reach an agreement sends what EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called “a setback and a message we did not want to send today,” according to the Associated Press.

The obstruction comes as international leaders mark the approaching anniversary of the conflict, which began on February 24, 2022 and has resulted in an estimated 1.8 million Russian and Ukrainian soldiers killed, wounded, or missing. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, speaking at a pro-Ukrainian event in Berlin, appealed for continued support, stating, “We are standing at a crossroads that could decide on the well-being of our whole continent.” French President Emmanuel Macron echoed this sentiment, reaffirming France’s “unwavering” commitment to Ukraine during a meeting with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, another strong advocate for Kyiv.

Hungary’s resistance centers on the resumption of Russian oil deliveries. Shipments to Hungary and Slovakia have been disrupted since January 27 following reported damage to the Druzhba pipeline, allegedly caused by Russian drone attacks, according to Ukrainian officials. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has publicly accused Ukraine of deliberately blocking oil shipments and attempting to destabilize his government, a claim he reiterated Monday, referring to the situation as a “Ukrainian oil blockade” led by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó insisted that Hungary’s energy security must not be jeopardized.

Hungary’s Veto and EU Treaty Obligations

Kallas stated that Hungary’s stance on the loan package contradicts EU treaties. While Hungary had previously agreed to the financial aid for Ukraine, it is now linking its approval to the restoration of Russian oil supplies. The situation highlights Hungary’s unique position within the EU as a member state that has maintained and even increased its reliance on Russian energy sources, benefiting from a temporary exemption from EU policies restricting Russian oil imports.

The timing of Hungary’s objections has raised concerns, particularly as the country prepares for crucial elections in the coming months. Poland’s Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski suggested that Orbán’s actions may be motivated by domestic political considerations, aiming to exploit anti-Ukraine sentiment to bolster his electoral prospects. Sikorski expressed shock at the “climate of hostility towards the victim of aggression” fostered by Hungary’s ruling party.

International Pressure on Russia

Despite the setback, several European leaders emphasized the importance of increasing the economic costs for Russia to compel a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Chancellor Merz argued that “This war will only end when Russia no longer sees any sense in continuing it…when Russia’s costs for this madness have simply become too high,” calling for a concerted effort to “dry up Moscow’s war financing.” Finland’s President Stubb characterized Russia’s war as a “strategic failure” – militarily and economically – and urged allies to intensify pressure on President Putin.

The EU has already provided Ukraine with €194.9 billion ($229.8 billion) in financial assistance and implemented measures to curtail Russia’s energy exports. But, Hungary and Slovakia remain exceptions, continuing to import Russian oil and gas despite widespread reductions across the continent.

Looking Ahead

The failure to secure unanimous agreement on the sanctions package underscores the challenges facing the EU in maintaining a unified front against Russia. The situation raises questions about the future of EU sanctions policy and the potential for further divisions within the bloc. Negotiations are expected to continue, but the outcome remains uncertain as the anniversary of the war approaches. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the EU can overcome internal obstacles and demonstrate continued resolve in supporting Ukraine.

What are your thoughts on the EU’s response to the conflict in Ukraine? Share your perspective in the comments below.

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Pakistan Strikes Afghanistan, Killing Dozens in Border Clashes – Kabul Protests

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Islamabad launched a series of airstrikes targeting militants within Afghanistan early Sunday, claiming to have killed at least 70 individuals it identified as militants responsible for recent attacks on Pakistani soil. The strikes, described as targeting “terrorist hideouts,” have been met with strong condemnation from Kabul, which asserts the attacks struck civilian areas and resulted in numerous casualties, including women and children.

The Pakistani military stated the operations were “intelligence-based, selective operations” against seven camps belonging to the Pakistani Taliban (TTP) and affiliates, including a group linked to the Islamic State, according to Information Minister Attaullah Tarar via Reuters. The strikes follow a surge in militant violence within Pakistan, including recent suicide bombings that have claimed dozens of lives.

Afghanistan’s Defense Ministry released a statement calling the strikes a violation of its airspace and sovereignty, stating that “various civilian areas” in the provinces of Nangarhar and Paktika were hit, including a religious madrassa and multiple homes. Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said on X, formerly known as Twitter, that the attacks “killed and wounded dozens, including women and children,” and dismissed Pakistan’s claim of 70 militants killed as “inaccurate.”

Civilian Casualties Reported

Reports from the ground paint a grim picture of the aftermath. Mawlawi Fazl Rahman Fayyaz, the provincial director of the Afghan Red Crescent Society in Nangarhar province, reported 18 people were killed and several others wounded. Local tribal elder Habib Ullah, speaking to the Associated Press, stated those killed were not militants but “poor people who suffered greatly,” adding they were not affiliated with the Taliban, military, or former government. Villagers in Nangarhar were seen clearing rubble on Sunday as preparations for funerals began.

The Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned Pakistan’s ambassador to Kabul to protest the strikes, asserting that protecting Afghanistan’s territory is a “Sharia responsibility” and warning Pakistan of consequences.

Escalating Tensions and Recent Attacks

Pakistan has repeatedly accused Afghanistan of harboring the TTP, a claim both the group and Kabul deny. The TTP is separate from, but closely allied with, Afghanistan’s Taliban. The recent strikes come after a suicide bomber targeted a security convoy in Bannu, Pakistan, killing two soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel. Prior to that, a suicide bombing in Bajaur district killed 11 soldiers and a child, with Pakistani authorities identifying the attacker as an Afghan national according to France 24.

Pakistan claims to have “conclusive evidence” linking recent attacks, including a suicide bombing at a Shiite mosque in Islamabad that killed 31 worshippers, to militants operating from Afghanistan. Islamabad has urged the Taliban authorities to prevent militant groups from using Afghan territory for attacks within Pakistan, alleging that no substantial action has been taken.

Ceasefire Attempts and Regional Implications

The strikes suggest a breakdown in recent mediation efforts. Security analyst Abdullah Khan in Islamabad noted the operations indicate that Qatari, Turkish, and Saudi-led mediations have failed to resolve tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and warned that the situation is likely to escalate as reported by the BBC. A Qatari-mediated ceasefire, established after deadly border clashes in October that resulted in dozens of casualties, has largely held, but talks in Istanbul in November failed to produce a formal agreement.

The October clashes, which involved both soldiers and suspected militants, followed explosions in Kabul that Afghan officials blamed on Pakistan. Islamabad responded at that time with strikes targeting militant hideouts within Afghanistan.

The situation remains fluid, and the potential for further escalation is high. The international community is likely to increase pressure on Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities to address concerns about the presence of militant groups within its borders and uphold commitments under the Doha agreement. Further diplomatic efforts will be crucial to de-escalate tensions and prevent a wider conflict.

What comes next will depend on Afghanistan’s response to the strikes and whether Pakistan undertakes further military action. The stability of the region hinges on a resolution to the ongoing security concerns and a commitment to dialogue between the two nations.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.

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