Eight pupils suspended after video shows assault at South African school

In a troubling incident, Axel Rudakubana's father defended his son after he was expelled from school for carrying a knife. This situation raises serious concerns about school safety and the responsibilities of parents in addressing their children's behavior. The father's insistence that his son was a 'good boy' highlights the complexities of parental perception versus the reality of dangerous actions, prompting discussions on how schools and families can better collaborate to prevent such incidents.

A Ukrainian city is experiencing a total blackout following a massive assault by Russian forces, which has resulted in the tragic loss of four lives and injuries to ten others. This situation highlights the ongoing conflict and its devastating impact on civilians, raising concerns about safety and humanitarian conditions in the region.

The African National Congress (ANC), the party founded by Nelson Mandela, is facing serious criticism over corruption scandals. Critics argue that some ANC members are exploiting laws intended to benefit South Africa's Black majority for personal gain, which undermines the party's legacy and the trust of the public. This situation is significant as it raises concerns about governance and accountability in a country still grappling with the effects of apartheid.

A 55-year-old Palestinian woman is recovering in the hospital after being violently attacked by a masked Israeli settler in the West Bank village of Turmus Ayaa. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and violence in the region, raising concerns about the safety of civilians amidst the conflict.

The second men's one-day international match between Australia and India is currently taking place at Adelaide Oval. As the game unfolds, fans are keenly watching how the teams perform, especially after Australia's strong showing in previous matches. This match is significant as it contributes to the ongoing series and showcases the talents of both teams, making it a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts.

Australia's Labor government is facing criticism over its proposed nature laws, which the Coalition claims could hinder job creation and investment. This debate is crucial as it highlights the tension between environmental protection and economic growth, raising concerns about the potential impact on Australia's job market and investment climate.

Vyacheslav Volodin, a prominent Russian MP, has criticized the European Union for opting to purchase American gas at inflated prices, which he likens to paying 'Chanel prices.' This decision comes after the EU turned away from more affordable Russian energy sources. The implications of this choice are significant, as it not only affects energy costs for EU consumers but also highlights the ongoing tensions between the EU and Russia over energy dependency.

The US has imposed sanctions on Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil, marking a significant move since Donald Trump's return to office. This decision comes as a response to President Putin's ongoing refusal to end the war in Ukraine, highlighting the US's commitment to holding Russia accountable. These sanctions could impact global oil markets and further strain US-Russia relations, making it a critical development in international politics.

Thursday's papers highlight two significant stories: the return of a migrant who had previously been sent to France and the unveiling of the identity of Harvey Willgoose's murderer. These developments are important as they reflect ongoing discussions around migration policies and public safety, sparking conversations about the implications for communities and the justice system.

The U.S. has intensified its military campaign against alleged drug trafficking in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of five individuals. This escalation highlights the ongoing battle against the cocaine trade in a region notorious for its drug routes. The significance of these strikes lies in their potential to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs, but they also raise concerns about the human cost and the effectiveness of military interventions in addressing complex drug trafficking issues.