Germany vowed to take on more “responsibility” for Europe’s defense, in the country’s first-ever postwar military strategy. The new 35-page report calls for quickly boosting troop numbers and military capabilities, and is primarily aimed at deterring Russia, analysts said. Germany was long seen as hesitant to appear overly militaristic or ...
Month: April 2026
Iran says Strait of Hormuz cannot be opened due to ceasefire breachesIran says Strait of Hormuz cannot be opened due to ceasefire breaches
Iran’s chief negotiator says “violations” by the US and Israel make it impossible to open the strait. ...
China weathered Trump’s tariffs – but the Iran war is taking a tollChina weathered Trump’s tariffs – but the Iran war is taking a toll
The Middle East conflict is putting pressure on factory orders, costs and jobs in China’s export-driven economy. ...
US Navy chief leaving post ‘effective immediately’, Pentagon saysUS Navy chief leaving post ‘effective immediately’, Pentagon says
US Navy Secretary John Phelan is the latest high-ranking military leader to leave the administration in recent months. ...
UK and France strike new £662m small boats dealUK and France strike new £662m small boats deal
The three-year agreement will see at least 50 riot-trained police officers drafted in to tackle violence and “hostile crowds”. ...
Ban ‘forever chemicals’ in uniforms and frying pans, MPs urgeBan ‘forever chemicals’ in uniforms and frying pans, MPs urge
School uniforms and non-stick pans are some of the everyday products that should stop using chemicals called PFAS, MPs say. ...
Weekly bread rolls and an Irish bender: six readers on gestures that made them feel less lonelyWeekly bread rolls and an Irish bender: six readers on gestures that made them feel less lonely
We know what can cause loneliness, from online habits to other cultural shifts – but what makes us feel connected and cared for? The rise of social media, disappearing third spaces, displeasure with dating apps: in 2026, there are plenty of possible culprits when it comes to loneliness. But what ...
Why The Washington Post lost in VirginiaWhy The Washington Post lost in Virginia
David’s view There were many losers in Virginia’s vote to approve a gerrymandered, Democratic map. President Donald Trump kept his super PAC wallet closed, quietly angering Republicans. Four members of House Speaker Mike Johnson’s GOP majority now face near-certain defeat in November. And Virginia Republicans, who wanted to prove that ...
The Iran war’s ‘lag effect’ on Africa’s economiesThe Iran war’s ‘lag effect’ on Africa’s economies
Yinka’s view Sub-Saharan Africa entered 2026 with its fastest economic growth in a decade but that momentum has been upended by the disruption in fuel supply caused by the US and Israeli war with Iran. Last week the International Monetary Fund trimmed its 2026 outlook for Africa to 4.3%, 30 ...
US nears government bailout deal for Spirit AirlinesUS nears government bailout deal for Spirit Airlines
The News Spirit is on the verge of a $500 million bailout from the US government, providing warrants for a stake in the airline in exchange for the infusion, according to people familiar with the matter. The talks are advanced, and would likely result in the US government being positioned ...