‘His drug is power’: Lukashenko reaches out to the west

The European Union is reportedly contemplating a shift in its policy towards Belarus, as highlighted by the Guardian. This potential rapprochement could signify a significant change in diplomatic relations, which is crucial given the ongoing tensions in the region. Understanding this shift is important as it may impact not only Belarus but also the broader geopolitical landscape in Europe.

In a bold move, President Donald Trump has issued Hamas a three to four-day ultimatum to accept his proposed peace plan for Gaza, which is supported by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This plan calls for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, disarmament of Hamas, and the establishment of a transitional authority led by Trump. The urgency of this ultimatum raises concerns about the potential for escalating tensions in the region, making it a critical moment for peace efforts.

Donald Trump announced that his administration has reached a significant $500 million settlement deal with Harvard University, resolving a dispute between the institution and the federal government. While details are still being finalized, this agreement could have important implications for federal funding and university relations, showcasing a potential shift in how such disputes are handled in the future.

Recently, Donald Trump shared a video promoting 'med beds', a fictional medical technology linked to conspiracy theories, particularly within QAnon circles. Although the video was deleted shortly after, it reignited discussions around these unproven claims. This matters because it highlights the ongoing influence of misinformation in political discourse and raises concerns about the potential impact on public perception of legitimate medical advancements.

In a controversial statement, President Donald Trump proposed that U.S. cities could serve as military 'training grounds' amid what he described as a 'war from within.' This alarming suggestion raises concerns about the militarization of domestic spaces and the implications for civil liberties. Experts like Retired Marine Colonel Mark Cancian weigh in, highlighting the potential risks of such a strategy. This discussion is crucial as it touches on the balance between national security and the rights of citizens.

President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning about the potential for a government shutdown, indicating that irreversible actions could be taken, such as cuts to personnel and benefits. This comes as the US Senate is set to vote on a temporary funding bill. Additionally, Trump has reached a $24.5 million settlement with YouTube over the freezing of his account following the January 6 riot. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions in US politics and the significant implications of a government shutdown for millions of Americans.

Donald Trump has set a deadline of three to four days for Hamas to respond to his proposed peace plan for Gaza. This development is significant as key allies, including Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, are reportedly encouraging Hamas to accept the proposal, which could potentially lead to a resolution in the ongoing conflict.

Palestinians are reacting negatively to Donald Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza, which they view as a 'surrender diktat', according to Fathi Nimer from the Al-Shabaka think tank. Nimer argues that the plan fails to address the root causes of the conflict and risks perpetuating the same conditions that contributed to the rise of Hamas. This perspective highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and raises concerns about the effectiveness of proposed solutions.

Donald Trump's recent 20-point plan for Gaza has raised eyebrows due to its lack of specific details, which are crucial for any effective peace agreement. This absence of clarity could hinder progress in a region that desperately needs resolution, making it a significant topic of discussion among policymakers and citizens alike.

Uefa has decided to pause its plans to impose a ban on Israel from European football following the announcement of Donald Trump's proposed peace plan for the region. This decision comes as national federations have accepted the need for a temporary hold on the ban, which was expected to be a significant move in the ongoing discussions about Israel's participation in international football. The situation remains fluid, and the implications of this pause could affect upcoming matches, including Maccabi Tel Aviv's scheduled game against Dinamo Zagreb.

In a recent gathering of top US military leaders, Donald Trump pushed for a 'warrior ethos' within the armed forces, emphasizing the need for more deployments against what he termed the 'enemy from within.' His remarks, which included criticism of 'wokism' and praise for first responders, reflect a controversial stance that could further polarize military and civilian relations. This matters because it signals a shift in military culture and priorities, potentially impacting how the military engages with domestic issues and public perception.

In a significant move for healthcare accessibility, President Donald Trump announced that Pfizer will offer discounted medications through a new federal website. This initiative aims to provide medications to Medicaid at 'most favored nation' pricing, ensuring that patients can access essential drugs at lower costs. This development is crucial as it addresses the ongoing concerns about high prescription drug prices and aims to improve healthcare affordability for many Americans.

The Australian government has expressed deep concern for the safety of its citizens participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla, which aims to break Israel's blockade of Gaza and deliver much-needed aid. This situation is critical as it highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the risks involved for those trying to provide assistance. The government's stance reflects the delicate balance between supporting humanitarian efforts and ensuring the safety of its citizens in a volatile region.

The US government has officially shut down for the first time since 2018 after a funding bill failed to pass in the Senate. This shutdown highlights the deepening partisan divide between Republicans and Democrats, who are blaming each other for the impasse. The consequences of this shutdown could be significant, affecting federal employees and services, and it raises concerns about the government's ability to function effectively in the future.

The UK government has mandated that every GP practice must now offer online booking, a move aimed at modernizing the NHS and making healthcare more accessible. Despite some opposition from unions, ministers believe that embracing digital technology is essential for improving patient experience and efficiency in the healthcare system. This change is significant as it reflects a broader trend towards digital solutions in public services, potentially leading to better health outcomes for patients.

A tragic school collapse in Indonesia has left over 90 people believed to be buried under rubble, with authorities confirming that six individuals are still alive and in contact with rescue workers. This incident highlights the urgent need for improved building safety standards in the region, as communities rally to support rescue efforts and hope for the safe recovery of those trapped.

Keir Starmer's recent conference speech aimed to inspire the Labour Party and the nation, likening their struggle to the post-World War II rebuilding efforts. However, the atmosphere was subdued, with poor polling and internal party challenges casting a shadow over his ambitious vision for the future. This speech is significant as it reflects the current political climate in Britain and the Labour Party's efforts to regain public trust and support.

Bernard Branagan, a widower from Hilltown in County Down, is turning his personal tragedy into a source of strength for others. After losing his wife, Zipporah, under mysterious circumstances, he is motivated to help those facing similar challenges. His story highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of community support during tough times, reminding us that even in grief, we can find purpose and connection.