Sunday, April 26
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro expressed openness to dialogue with Washington on drug trafficking, oil, and migration. However, he remained non-committal regarding US President Donald Trump's claims of a strike on a Venezuelan dock used by alleged drug boats. The US has not provided evidence for its recent maritime and potential land strikes against drug operations
China has begun taxing condoms and contraceptives at a 13% VAT rate, ending a long-standing exemption. This move signals a significant policy shift as the government intensifies efforts to combat a deepening demographic decline and boost birth rates. The population has fallen for three consecutive years, with experts warning of continued decline.
Saudi-led coalition airstrikes hit camps of UAE-backed southern separatists in eastern Yemen. At least seven people died and over 20 were injured. This escalation follows rising tensions between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia claims the separatists received weapons from the UAE. The situation remains tense as separatists refuse to withdraw from their positions.
A Bangladeshi businessman, Khokon Chandra Das, was brutally attacked and set on fire by a mob. He sustained severe burn injuries and is undergoing treatment. His family expressed shock and confusion over the senseless attack. The incident occurred near Keurbhanga Bazar. Police are investigating the matter. This assault follows other violent incidents targeting the Hindu community in Bangladesh.
Iran issued a stern warning against US intervention, vowing retaliation after President Trump pledged aid to protesters. The exchange escalates tensions amid ongoing demonstrations over economic hardship, with Iranian officials accusing the US and Israel of fueling unrest and threatening regional destabilization.
UAE banks are phasing out SMS OTPs for online card payments starting January 6, 2026, due to security risks like SIM-swapping and phishing. This shift mandates in-app authentication via push notifications and biometric verification, enhancing transaction security and user experience. Residents must update their bank apps and enable notifications to avoid payment disruptions.
In a recent campaign trail clash, Republican gubernatorial contender Casey Putsch has taken aim at Vivek Ramaswamy, alleging that the wealthy entrepreneur accepted a $50,000 scholarship intended for underprivileged youth. This backlash follows Ramaswamy's defense of the fellowship during a 2023 interview, which he deemed "free money," despite his substantial earnings and his later stance against aid based on identity.
