Donald Trump began a Middle East tour with major policy and economic announcements, including lifting long-standing US sanctions on Syria - a country rebuilding after civil war and regime change. The move, which follows a request by Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, signals a dramatic policy shift. Trump also unveiled a $600 billion Saudi investment commitment in the USA and signed a record-breaking $142 billion arms agreement with Riyadh. The visit prioritised economic cooperation over security concerns and featured meetings with top US business leaders and Saudi officials. The deals, on energy, defence, and infrastructure, could eventually total $1 trillion. Trump praised bin Salman but avoided any mention of the 2018 Khashoggi killing. He also reaffirmed a hard stance against Iran, offering conditional diplomacy. His broader goal: to realign regional power structures, bolster US business, and isolate Tehran while pushing for eventual Arab-Israeli cooperation.
Burkina Faso: Africa’s youngest leader
15 May 2025
Captain Ibrahim Traore, Africa’s youngest leader at 37, is gaining attention across the continent for his defiant rhetoric of pan-Africanism, anti-colonialism, and youth empowerment. Since seizing power in a 2022 coup, Traore has distanced Burkina Faso from France and ECOWAS, aligning instead with fellow coup-led nations Niger and Mali. His image, recently plastered over Russian state media when he visited Moscow, resonates with African youth disillusioned with older leadership and stalled democracies. However, behind the populist appeal, the country’s security has deteriorated sharply. Attacks from both government forces and jihadists have killed over 7,200 people in the past year - more than double the pre-coup toll. With 60% of the country beyond state control, millions are displaced or need aid. Yet for many, Traore’s revolutionary language reflects real frustrations with Western influence and entrenched corruption, making him a symbol of resistance - however flawed.
Uruguay: beloved former president dies
15 May 2025
Jose ‘Pepe’ Mujica, Uruguay’s beloved former president and leftist rebel, has died at 89 after battling throat cancer. Revered for his humility, Mujica led Uruguay from 2010 to 2015, promoting civil liberties, legalising same-sex marriage and marijuana, and pushing for green energy reform. His decision to live in a simple farmhouse rather than in the presidential palace, and to drive around in an old Volkswagen Beetle, earned him the nickname ‘the world’s poorest president’. Once a member of the armed Tupamaros movement, Mujica spent years in solitary confinement during Uruguay’s military dictatorship. Following the country’s return to democracy, he entered politics with the Broad Front coalition, rising to the presidency by age 74. His death prompted tributes from across Latin America, honoring his courage, simplicity, and hope. Though once a fighter, Mujica later championed peace, dignity, and selfless leadership. In his final interview, he faced death with serenity, saying, ‘A warrior has the right to rest.’
Over 7,750 believers were baptised at Huntington Beach, California, marking the largest single-day baptism in US history. The event, hosted by Oceans Church and Pastor Mark Francey, gathered 30,000 attendees from over 300 churches statewide. Held as part of the Baptise California initiative, it surpassed last year’s record and is seen as a powerful spark for revival across America. The movement’s vision is expanding through the upcoming Baptise America event on Pentecost Sunday, seeking to unite churches nationwide in synchronised water baptisms. Organisers say that this initiative is not about one church but the entire Body of Christ, standing together in obedience to the Great Commission. Testimonies included a 71-year-old woman baptised after forty years of waiting, a symbol of God’s ongoing call to repentance and renewal. The team’s ultimate goal is lasting fruit: connecting new believers into local churches and fostering a growing, united movement of faith across the nation.
Nearly fifty years ago, Yorkshire coal miner Russ Gill’s life was transformed after a desperate prayer for his daughter’s healing led him to Christ. When seven-year-old Jayne was critically ill with kidney failure, Russ cried out to God, promising to become a Christian if she recovered. After her healing, the family attended church, and Russ soon gave his life to Christ. His faith deepened, leading him and his wife, Jean, to Bible College and a lifetime of ministry. Russ boldly shared his testimony in an evangelistic paper, sparking seeds of faith in his mining colleagues. One colleague, initially dismissive, later wrote to him, recounting a powerful encounter with God which brought him to his knees and into church. Despite challenges, including Jayne’s later passing, the family’s legacy of faith endures. Their son now pastors a vibrant London church, and granddaughter Jessica is studying at Bible college. Russ’s joy-filled witness continues to inspire, as he declares: ‘My God is a living God, Jesus - the same yesterday, today and for ever!’
Royals lead VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations
08 May 2025
Britain commemorated the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with grand events led by the Royal Family. Crowds lined the Mall in London to witness an RAF flypast, echoing King George VI’s historic 1945 balcony appearance. The King and Queen, joined by senior royals and veterans, paid tribute to those who fought for freedom. Prince George, 11, attended his first VE Day tea party with veterans, showing keen interest in their stories. Across the UK, tea parties and street celebrations honoured the sacrifices of wartime generations. The Bengali Association hosted a vibrant event in London’s Docklands, reflecting the vital contributions of Commonwealth soldiers. Veterans shared memories of wartime bravery, from the D-Day landings to service in Churchill’s secret army. Keir Starmer underscored the nation's enduring gratitude. These commemorations, blending solemn remembrance and joyful celebration, highlighted the resilience and unity forged in World War 2 - a legacy which continues to shape Britain’s national identity and inspire future generations.
Trump set to announce UK - USA trade deal
08 May 2025
Donald Trump is poised to announce a significant new trade agreement between the USA and the United Kingdom, marking a key step forward in post-Brexit trade relations. A ‘heads of terms agreement’ - essentially a preliminary framework - has been reached, laying the groundwork for a full trade deal. The announcement, expected from the Oval Office, follows weeks of high-level discussions amid global trade tensions. While the deal’s full details are pending, it is anticipated to address tariff reductions, particularly on UK steel and car exports, sectors hit hard by US tariffs. The British pound rose 0.4% against the US dollar following reports of the agreement. The deal comes as the USA also continues trade negotiations with other major economies, including China, South Korea, and Japan. UK officials have stressed the importance of balancing strong transatlantic ties with ongoing EU relations. The agreement is seen as a boost for UK industry and a strategic move to strengthen bilateral economic partnerships in an uncertain global climate. See also
Five Iranian men have been arrested in the UK on suspicion of plotting a terrorist attack, with the Israeli embassy in London understood to have been the target. Although police have not officially confirmed the embassy as the focus, multiple sources, including the BBC, report this as accurate. The suspects, aged between 24 and 46, were arrested in Swindon, west London, Stockport, Rochdale, and Manchester. Four remain in custody under the Terrorism Act; one has been released on bail. Counter-terrorism officers have searched several properties across England, and the investigation is described as fast-moving and sensitive. Iran has denied involvement but offered cooperation. Officials warn that Iranian-backed activities in the UK are often underestimated, with influence spread via religious institutes, media, and charities aligned with Tehran’s aims. UK authorities have praised the swift response of hundreds of officers involved, highlighting the seriousness of this threat. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant as investigations continue, with further updates expected as operational security allows.