Putin calls new US sanctions an ‘unfriendly act’ but claims they won’t affect Russian economy – as it happened

Russia has intensified its military actions by launching a significant number of drone strikes across Ukraine, with one of the attacks reportedly hitting a school building. This escalation is alarming as it not only threatens civilian safety but also raises concerns about the ongoing conflict's impact on education and community stability. The situation underscores the urgent need for international attention and potential intervention to protect vulnerable populations.

The relationship between the US and Israel has always been strong, but recent developments suggest that Washington may be asserting more influence over its ally. This shift raises questions about the dynamics of their partnership and what it means for future cooperation. Understanding this evolving relationship is crucial as it could impact regional stability and international relations.

In the past week, the dynamics between Russia and Ukraine have shifted significantly. Instead of military action, the focus turned to diplomatic discussions, with Donald Trump meeting Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the White House. This meeting has sparked speculation about a potential U.S.-Russia summit in Budapest, highlighting the ongoing complexities of international relations in the region. Understanding these developments is crucial as they could influence future interactions and stability between the two nations.

Air Canada is set to introduce new flights to the U.S. from Toronto's island airport, directly competing with Porter Airlines for business travelers. This move is significant as it enhances travel options for passengers and could stimulate economic activity in the region, making it easier for business professionals to connect across borders.

EU Commissioner Michael McGrath's visit to Canada highlights the bloc's approach to technology and AI regulations. Instead of lecturing Canada on its less regulatory-focused AI policy, the EU is acknowledging the Canadian government's emphasis on adoption over strict regulations. This matters as it reflects a growing trend among nations to balance innovation with oversight, potentially influencing global standards in AI governance.

In a significant shift, Trump has decided to cancel his talks with Putin and impose oil sanctions, a move that is likely to be met with disapproval in Moscow. This decision highlights the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Russia regarding the situation in Ukraine, and it raises questions about future diplomatic relations. The implications of this stance could affect not only international politics but also global oil markets.

Ukraine is pushing the European Union to be more flexible in utilizing a potential loan that is backed by frozen Russian assets. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and the EU regarding financial strategies and the management of these assets, which could significantly impact Ukraine's economic recovery efforts. The outcome of this discussion is crucial as it could set a precedent for how international financial support is structured in times of conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is urging EU leaders to take immediate action on using Russia's frozen assets to bolster Ukraine's defense against ongoing aggression. During a summit in Brussels, he emphasized the urgency of the situation, as discussions around a reparations loan have stalled. This call to action highlights the critical need for support in Ukraine's fight for sovereignty and security, making it a pivotal moment for EU solidarity and response.

The Quebec government has announced plans to ban religious symbols in daycares, a move that Secularism Minister Jean-François Roberge claims reflects a broad consensus among Quebecers for strengthening secularism. This decision is significant as it highlights ongoing debates about the role of religion in public spaces and the balance between individual rights and collective values in Quebec society.

The Europa League matches are heating up with Nottingham Forest facing Porto and Celtic taking on Sturm Graz. Fans are eagerly following the live updates as teams push for crucial goals. Notably, manager Emery has made strategic substitutions, bringing in key players like Rogers and McGinn to turn the tide in their favor. This tournament is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of European football and the potential for underdog teams to shine on a larger stage.

The search for a new chair to lead the grooming inquiry is expected to take months, following the unexpected withdrawal of two prominent candidates. This delay raises concerns about the inquiry's progress and the impact it may have on addressing critical issues related to grooming. The situation highlights the challenges faced in appointing leadership for such significant investigations.

In a surprising move, President Donald Trump has granted a pardon to Canadian cryptocurrency billionaire Changpeng Zhao, who was serving a sentence for money laundering after pleading guilty. This decision not only highlights the complexities of the legal landscape surrounding cryptocurrency but also raises questions about the implications for the industry as a whole. Zhao, the founder of Binance, is a significant figure in the crypto world, and this pardon could influence future regulatory discussions and the perception of cryptocurrency entrepreneurs.

In a significant crackdown, the FBI has arrested over 30 individuals linked to illegal gambling activities associated with the NBA. These charges involve insider sports betting and rigged poker games, raising serious concerns about the integrity of sports and the influence of organized crime. This situation highlights the ongoing battle against corruption in sports and the need for stricter regulations to protect the integrity of games that fans love.

In a significant ruling, a UK tribunal has determined that Apple abused its dominant position in the market by excluding competition and imposing excessive commissions on its App Store. This decision is crucial as it could pave the way for increased scrutiny of Apple's business practices and potentially lead to changes in how app developers are charged, fostering a more competitive environment.