July 27, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: International

Pope Francis Dies at 88 After Prolonged Illness, Vatican Confirms

First Latin American and Jesuit Pope Remembered for His Humble Leadership and Progressive Reforms Historic Passing of a Global Spiritual Leader The Vatican has announced the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88, marking the end of a transformative 12-year papacy. The pontiff, who became the first Latin American and first Jesuit leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died at 7:35 AM after a prolonged illness. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, speaking on Vatican TV, stated, “At 7:35 this morning the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.” A Papacy Marked by Health Struggles and Determination The Pope had faced numerous health scares throughout his tenure, including a recent and severe case of double pneumonia and kidney complications. Admitted to the hospital on February 14 for bronchitis, his condition worsened before stabilizing in late March. On March 23, he made a symbolic appearance from the hospital balcony, offering a thumbs-up to supporters. Despite visible weakness, he resumed limited duties, including greeting crowds on Easter Sunday and meeting with US Vice President JD Vance on April 19. Final Resting Place Reflects Humility Pope Francis will become the first pope in more than a century to be buried outside the Vatican. Honoring his personal wishes, he will be laid to rest at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome. He also opted out of the traditional three-coffin burial custom, choosing instead a single coffin made of wood and zinc to reflect his pastoral humility. A Reformist and Compassionate Leader Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis was elected on March 13, 2013, at the age of 76. He assumed leadership during a time of crisis, with the Church under fire for clerical sex abuse scandals and bureaucratic infighting. Throughout his papacy, Francis focused on inclusivity, environmental advocacy, and social justice, while modernizing elements of the centuries-old institution. Among his landmark initiatives: Legacy of Complexity and Change Francis’s papacy was not without controversy. He received criticism from both conservative factions, who felt he abandoned traditions, and progressives, who wished for bolder reforms. Nevertheless, he was seen by many as a bridge-builder, seeking to align the Church with the realities of the modern world. Over 12 years, he: The World Mourns a Pope of the People With his passing, the global Catholic community loses a beloved and accessible spiritual leader, one who championed a Church that is more merciful, just, and close to the marginalized. His legacy will continue to shape conversations on faith, compassion, and reform for years to come.

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Editor05 mins

Fresh Russian Drone Strikes Reported in Ukraine Just Hours After ‘Easter Truce’ Ends

Just hours after a 30-hour Easter truce declared by Moscow came to an end, Ukraine has reported a fresh wave of Russian drone and missile attacks across multiple regions. The Ukrainian Air Force issued air raid alerts for Kyiv, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, Cherkasy, Mykolaiv, and Zaporizhzhia as residents were urged to take shelter. Explosions in Mykolaiv and Missile Attacks Confirmed In the southern city of Mykolaiv, Mayor Oleksandr Senkevych confirmed that “explosions were heard” late Sunday night. Regional Governor Vitaliy Kim later reported that the city was struck by missiles, though no casualties or damage were recorded. Ukraine’s Air Force noted “rocket danger” in central areas and confirmed the presence of active Russian aircraft in the north-eastern and eastern regions. Air defence systems were reported to be engaged in the Kyiv area. Ceasefire Ends Amid Mutual Accusations The truce, which lasted from Saturday evening to midnight on Sunday Moscow time (21:00 GMT), was declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin as a temporary halt to hostilities during Orthodox Easter. However, both Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of violating the ceasefire. While the Kremlin has not commented on the new wave of strikes, a Kremlin spokesperson confirmed earlier that there would be no extension of the truce beyond Sunday. Zelensky: Russian Truce Was “PR” Move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the truce as a public relations stunt, calling Putin’s words “empty.” He claimed that Russia had carried out 1,882 attacks during the ceasefire period, 812 of which involved heavy weaponry. He emphasized Ukraine’s right to respond, stating, “We will respond to silence with silence, our strikes will be to protect against Russian strikes.” Zelensky also proposed a longer pause in attacks on civilian infrastructure, suggesting a 30-day cessation of long-range drone and missile strikes with the possibility of extension. Trump Calls for Peace Deal Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump weighed in, saying he hoped Russia and Ukraine would reach a peace deal “this week,” though he provided no specifics. War Grinds On as Civilian Toll Mounts Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, 2022. As of now, Russia controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, annexed in 2014. The conflict has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, predominantly soldiers, with no clear resolution in sight. While Putin’s ceasefire gesture appeared to offer a brief respite, the swift resumption of hostilities reinforces the deep mistrust and continued volatility along the frontlines.

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Editor04 mins

Easter Truce Falters as Fighting Continues Despite Russia’s Announcement, Says Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his country would respect a surprise Easter truce declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin, but accused Russia of breaking the ceasefire within hours of its commencement, as air-raid sirens wailed across Kyiv and fighting persisted on the frontlines. The temporary truce, effective from 6:00 p.m. Saturday to midnight Sunday (local time), was hailed as potentially the most significant pause in hostilities during the nearly three-year-long war. However, Ukrainian officials and military reports suggest that Russian artillery fire and drone activity did not cease, casting doubt on the Kremlin’s sincerity. Zelenskyy’s Response: “Give Peace a Chance” President Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine would mirror Russia’s ceasefire commitment, hoping for a genuine opportunity to calm the conflict. He proposed a 30-day extension of the truce, stating: “If a complete ceasefire truly takes hold, Ukraine proposes extending it beyond Easter. Thirty days could give peace a chance.” But the Ukrainian military reported continued assaults and drone activity in frontline areas, especially in eastern Ukraine, undermining hopes for an actual pause. Putin’s Declaration and U.S. Involvement President Putin cited “humanitarian reasons” for the ceasefire during a televised meeting with military officials. The move followed months of diplomatic efforts by U.S. President Donald Trump, who had recently warned of withdrawing from peace talks unless a truce was reached. Putin claimed the truce would hold unless “provocations” were initiated by Ukraine, while also ordering Russian forces to remain alert and ready. Prisoner Exchange Amid Escalation In a rare moment of cooperation, Russia and Ukraine exchanged more than 240 prisoners each on Saturday. Both sides called the exchange significant, though it was overshadowed by renewed violence and broken truce expectations. Scepticism on the Ground Soldiers near the eastern frontline city of Kramatorsk reacted with doubt to the truce declaration, citing past experiences where similar announcements were short-lived or ignored. Local residents, too, expressed concern that the ceasefire was more symbolic than real. Outlook: Fragile Hopes for Peace As of Saturday night, Ukrainian military officials confirmed that shelling and drone activity had continued, although with reduced intensity in some sectors. Zelenskyy reiterated his call for a real and verifiable cessation of hostilities, insisting Ukraine would match any genuine effort from Moscow. “If Russia is now suddenly ready to truly engage in a format of full and unconditional silence, Ukraine will act accordingly,” Zelenskyy posted online. Whether this Easter ceasefire evolves into a longer peace initiative remains uncertain, as trust between the two sides remains deeply frayed.

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Editor04 mins

Half of US Visa Revocations Linked to Indian Students, Says AILA Amid Rising Deportation Concerns

The American Immigration Lawyers’ Association (AILA) has raised alarms over the increasing number of student visa revocations and terminations in the United States, revealing that nearly 50% of the 327 reported cases involve students from India. The data, compiled from attorneys, students, and university personnel, also showed that 14% of those affected were from China, with other impacted nationalities including South Korea, Nepal, and Bangladesh. In a statement cited by PTI, AILA emphasized the need for increased transparency and oversight in visa-related decisions. “There should be a way for students to appeal SEVIS terminations that are inaccurate, without facing gaps in employment or requiring university involvement, given the sheer number of students affected,” the association said, calling for more accountability in immigration enforcement. This revelation comes amid growing controversy over the treatment of international students in the US. According to a Reuters report, numerous students have now turned to the courts to block immigration officials from deporting them following abrupt visa cancellations. On a single day, judges in Massachusetts, Montana, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C., issued emergency injunctions against federal authorities, stopping them from taking action against students affected by what critics call arbitrary and unjustified revocations. One such case is that of Krish Isserdasani, a 21-year-old Indian student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He was arrested in November for disorderly conduct after a verbal altercation but was not charged. Nonetheless, in April, he was informed that his SEVIS record had been terminated. A federal judge in Wisconsin ruled that the termination of his student status was likely unlawful, offering him temporary protection. Visa Crackdown Sparks Global Concerns The wave of visa revocations appears to be a part of the lingering effects of immigration policies introduced during the Trump administration. Despite legal pushback, hundreds of students are facing abrupt deportations, SEVIS database terminations, and a lack of recourse to appeal. Adding to the concern, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recently confirmed that 682 Indian nationals have been deported from the US since January 2025, most for attempting to enter the country illegally. These developments have sparked outrage and political concern in India, with opposition leaders questioning the Ministry of External Affairs and demanding a clearer response to the plight of Indian students abroad.

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Editor04 mins

Indian Student Harsimrat Randhawa Killed by Stray Bullet in Hamilton, Canada

A tragic incident unfolded in Hamilton, Ontario, on Wednesday evening when 21-year-old Indian student Harsimrat Randhawa was fatally struck by a stray bullet while waiting at a bus stop. Randhawa, a student at Mohawk College, was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire of a shooting between two vehicles. The incident occurred around 7:30 PM local time near the intersection of Upper James Street and South Bend Road. According to Hamilton police, a passenger in a black sedan opened fire on the occupants of a white sedan. During the exchange of gunfire, one of the bullets hit Randhawa in the chest. Paramedics arrived swiftly and transported her to the hospital, but she sadly succumbed to her injuries. Police have confirmed that Randhawa had no connection to the individuals involved in the shooting. The senseless violence also impacted nearby homes. One residence on Allenby Avenue sustained damage when gunfire shattered a rear window while the residents were watching television. Fortunately, no one inside was harmed. The Hamilton Police Service has launched a homicide investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Investigators are asking anyone with dashcam or security camera footage taken between 7:15 PM and 7:45 PM in the vicinity of Upper James Street and South Bend Road to come forward with any relevant information. In response to the tragedy, the Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed deep sorrow. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), they stated, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Indian student Harsimrat Randhawa in Hamilton, Ontario. As per local police, she was an innocent victim, fatally struck by a stray bullet during a shooting incident involving two vehicles. A homicide investigation is currently underway. We are in close contact with her family and are extending all necessary assistance. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time.” This devastating incident has reignited discussions around public safety and gun violence in Canada.

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Editor03 mins

Putin Meets Freed Russian Hostages, Credits Russia’s Relations with Palestinians for Their Release

On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Russian nationals who were recently freed after being held hostage by the militant group Hamas during the October 2023 attacks on Israel. Putin attributed their release to Moscow’s long-standing and stable ties with Palestinian groups, including Hamas. During the meeting at the Kremlin, Putin expressed gratitude to Hamas for their role in facilitating the release, calling it a humanitarian gesture. “The fact that you are now free is a result of Russia’s many years of stable relations with the Palestinian people,” Putin said, referring to former hostage Alexander Trufanov and his family members. Trufanov, who was freed after nearly 500 days in captivity as part of ceasefire negotiations, thanked Putin for his efforts in securing his release. He also voiced hope for the freedom of all remaining hostages, whom he described as “like brothers.” Trufanov’s father was killed in the attacks, but his mother, fiancée, and grandmother were among those released in late 2023. Putin reassured the hostages and their families that Russia would continue to work to ensure the release of other captives. Russia has maintained a policy of fostering positive relations with both Israel and Palestinian factions, advocating for a two-state solution as the foundation for peace in the Middle East.

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Editor02 mins

India’s Trade Deficit with China Hits Record $99.2 Billion Amid Import Surge

India’s trade deficit with China widened to an all-time high of $99.2 billion in the fiscal year that ended on March 31, driven by a sharp increase in imports of electronics, electric vehicle batteries, solar cells, and other key industrial components—sectors in which China has a dominant role in India’s supply chains. This marks a 17% increase from the previous year’s deficit of $85.07 billion. In contrast, exports to China declined by 14.5% to $14.2 billion, falling below the levels recorded in FY14. India continues to register trade deficits with other major economies, including the UAE ($26.79 billion) and Hong Kong ($13.64 billion). Notably, India also experienced trade deficits with several free trade agreement (FTA) partners such as the UAE, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia, raising concerns over the effectiveness of these agreements in promoting balanced trade. On a positive note, India recorded a trade surplus of $41.2 billion with the United States, reinforcing the US as a key export destination for Indian goods. The government is increasingly concerned about the potential dumping of Chinese goods, especially in light of the US Trump administration’s recent move to impose steep tariffs on Chinese imports. Indian officials believe these goods could be redirected to Indian markets—either directly or via third countries like Vietnam and Indonesia. In response, India has activated an import monitoring mechanism to ensure prompt and timely action against such dumping practices. India’s main imports from China include electronic components, computer hardware, telecom instruments, electrical machinery, plastic raw materials, pharmaceutical ingredients, and organic chemicals. On the other hand, top exports to China comprise iron ore, petroleum products, marine items, spices, and organic chemicals. However, industry representatives have raised concerns that many raw material imports from China are under-invoiced by up to 25%, potentially skewing trade data and impacting domestic industry competitiveness.

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Editor03 mins

Two Indian Nationals Killed in Dubai Bakery Attack; Families Seek Repatriation of Bodies

Two Indian nationals from Telangana were brutally killed and a third injured in an attack allegedly carried out by a Pakistani national shouting religious slogans at a bakery in Dubai, according to the victims’ families. The incident occurred on April 11 at Modern Bakery LLC in Dubai. One of the victims, Ashtapu Premsagar (35), hailed from Soan village in Nirmal district. He had been working at the bakery for the past five years and last visited his family two years ago. Premsagar is survived by his wife and two children. His family has appealed to the Indian government for urgent assistance in bringing his mortal remains home. Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy confirmed the identity of the second deceased as Srinivas from Nizamabad district. A third individual, Sagar, was injured in the attack and is currently hospitalized, according to his wife. Expressing deep grief, Reddy took to social media platform X to announce that he had spoken with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who assured full support to the bereaved families and the prompt repatriation of the victims’ remains. “Deeply shocked by the brutal killing of two Telugu youth from Telangana in Dubai, Ashtapu Premsagar and Srinivas. Spoke to Hon’ble External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar ji on the matter and he has assured full support to the bereaved families, and the urgent repatriation of the mortal remains,” Reddy posted. Union Minister of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar also expressed condolences, confirming that both MEA and Union Home Ministry officials are closely monitoring the situation. He urged the Dubai police, through the Indian consulate, to expedite the investigation and legal process. “We are extending all necessary support for the early repatriation of the victims and stand firmly with their families in this hour of grief,” Kumar added. The Ministry of External Affairs has assured that it is working to secure swift justice and repatriation of the bodies while offering all necessary diplomatic and legal assistance through the Indian Consulate in Dubai.

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Editor03 mins

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has unveiled a breathtaking image of a dying star.

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has unveiled a breathtaking image of NGC 1514, a planetary nebula approximately 1,500 light-years away, revealing never-before-seen structures in the dusty remnants of a dying star. 🌌 A Dying Star’s Beautiful Farewell In the new image, Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) captures an extraordinary level of detail: “With MIRI’s data, we now study the turbulence,” said Mike Ressler, project scientist at NASA’s JPL, who first noticed the rings using WISE data in 2010. 🔭 Why It Matters NGC 1514 was previously observed, but Webb’s mid-infrared capability provides a radically different view. MIRI detects light in the mid-infrared spectrum (5 to 28 microns), allowing scientists to:

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Editor02 mins

US-China Trade War Escalates: Tariffs Soar to 245% Amid National Security Concerns

The United States has raised tariffs on Chinese imports to a staggering 245%, citing retaliatory actions by Beijing, the White House announced on Tuesday afternoon (India time). This latest development marks a sharp escalation in the ongoing trade war between the two global economic giants, pushing the standoff further into uncertain territory. The move comes after President Donald Trump authorised a formal investigation into the national security risks associated with the United States’ dependence on imported, processed critical minerals and related products. These include essential resources like cobalt, lithium, nickel, and rare-earth elements — materials that are vital for manufacturing smartphones, electric vehicle batteries, and military equipment. The White House noted that over-reliance on foreign sources for such minerals leaves the US vulnerable to “serious, sustained, and long-term supply chain shocks.” It warned that this dependence could potentially endanger national security, hinder technological advancement, and undermine economic stability. Previously, the tit-for-tat tariff exchanges had seen the US imposing a 145% tax on Chinese imports, with China retaliating with a 125% tariff on American goods. In addition, China banned the export of key materials used by aerospace manufacturers and military contractors in the US. Despite these economic headwinds, a senior Chinese official on Wednesday admitted that the American tariffs were exerting pressure. However, China reported a stronger-than-expected economic performance, with its economy growing by 5.4% in the first quarter. Industrial output rose by 6.5% and retail sales by 4.6% year-on-year. Even so, Beijing acknowledged that the global economic outlook is becoming increasingly “complex and severe,” necessitating fresh efforts to drive growth and boost consumption. President Trump, meanwhile, has made it clear that the next move is up to China. “The ball is in China’s court. China needs to make a deal with us. We don’t have to make a deal with them,” he said, just a day after accusing Beijing of reneging on a significant Boeing agreement. Trump has long claimed that countries like China, India, and Brazil impose higher tariffs on American imports than the US does on goods from those nations. He has advocated for reciprocal tariffs as a way to either force foreign governments to lower their trade barriers or stimulate domestic manufacturing, thereby creating local jobs—a key plank of his re-election campaign. Since January, the Trump administration has steadily increased tariffs on Chinese goods, starting with 10% hikes in February and March and culminating in a 34% spike in April. By April 9, the cumulative tariffs exceeded 100%, causing global financial markets, including in the US, to tumble. While Trump has paused some tariff orders, those affecting China remain firmly in place. In retaliation, China suspended imports of American sorghum, poultry, and bonemeal, imposed trade restrictions on 27 US firms, and filed a formal complaint with the World Trade Organization. Beijing has also intensified diplomatic outreach to other global players like India and the European Union, seeking to counterbalance US influence. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently urged New Delhi and Beijing to “make the elephant and dragon dance” and jointly oppose “hegemonism and power politics.” As the trade tensions deepen, the path forward remains uncertain, with significant implications for global trade, geopolitics, and economic stability.

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