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Zimbabwe Shuts Down Amid Mass Protest Calls Against President Mnangagwa

Zimbabwe was brought to a standstill on Monday as a planned national protest against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership turned into a widespread shutdown. The protest, aimed at pressuring Mnangagwa to step down, was met with heavy police and military presence, deterring citizens from gathering in the streets. 

Despite calls from opposition leader Blessed Geza for Zimbabweans to “fill the streets,” only a small number of demonstrators, including disgruntled war veterans accusing Mnangagwa of corruption and clinging to power, were present. Police quickly dispersed the crowd using tear gas at President Robert Mugabe Square in Harare. 

In a video shared on social media, a determined woman defiantly declared, “We’re not going anywhere; we’re going to stay here.” Another protester, a 63-year-old grandmother on crutches, described her hardships, stating, “I am taking care of my grandchildren because my children cannot afford to.” 

Geza, a vocal critic of the president and former Zanu-PF member, has repeatedly demanded Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga replace Mnangagwa. The vice-president has not publicly addressed the calls, and government officials deny any rift between the two leaders. 

Across the country, businesses shuttered, streets emptied, and public transport ground to a halt as citizens opted to stay home. Schools closed, and security forces mounted roadblocks and patrols, removing debris left by protesters. 

Political analyst Ibbo Mandaza dismissed claims that the low turnout reflected a lack of support, asserting, “The shutdown was a massive political statement.” 

Farai Murapira, a spokesperson for the ruling Zanu-PF party, downplayed the impact, claiming social media misrepresented reality. 

The protests were sparked by reports that Mnangagwa plans to extend his final term by two years to 2030, despite the constitution’s two-term limit. The slogan “2030 he will still be the leader” has gained traction among his supporters. 

Although Mnangagwa recently pledged to step down in 2028, skepticism remains. Geza, a war veteran of the 1970s liberation struggle, has delivered fiery, expletive-laden speeches calling for the 82-year-old president’s resignation. 

Zimbabwe’s clergy has urged restraint, warning that unrest could destabilize the already fragile nation. A petrol station attendant told the BBC, “Ordinary people don’t want the country to slide into civil war.” 

As tensions simmer, Zimbabwe faces a defining moment in its political future, with questions mounting over Mnangagwa’s intentions and the country’s path forward. 

Iran Issues Dire Warning to Trump: “Firm and Immediate” Retaliation Threatened Over Nuclear Deal Dispute

Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States, pledging a “firm and immediate” response if U.S. President Donald Trump follows through on threats to bomb the country amid stalled nuclear deal negotiations. 

The warning from Iran’s Foreign Ministry came after Trump vowed to strike Iran “like never before” if a new nuclear deal was not reached. The formal notice was delivered to a Swiss diplomat, who was assured the message would be conveyed to Washington. The Iranian diplomat condemned Trump’s statements, calling them provocative and a violation of international law and the UN Charter. 

Earlier, Trump had set a two-month deadline in a March 7 letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging negotiations and warning of “devastating consequences” if Tehran advanced its nuclear program. Iran rejected the proposal for direct talks, prompting Trump to reiterate his threat on NBC: 

“If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing—the likes of which they have never seen before.” 

The escalating rhetoric coincided with the deployment of B-2 Spirit stealth bombers to the British island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean—positioned within striking range of Iran. The bombers, capable of delivering 25-ton payloads with precision, serve as a formidable deterrent. 

Ayatollah Khamenei responded defiantly, warning the U.S. against any military action: 

“If they commit any mischief, they will surely receive a strong reciprocal blow.” 

As he delivered the speech, crowds chanted “Death to America,” recalling the charged atmosphere of the 1980s revolution. Meanwhile, Iran has reportedly positioned missiles in fortified underground facilities, readying for potential strikes against U.S. targets. 

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected direct negotiations but left the door open to indirect talks, stating: 

“We don’t avoid talks—it’s the breach of promises that has caused issues for us so far. [The U.S.] must prove that they can build trust.” 

As tensions escalate, the world watches closely to see if diplomacy can avert a catastrophic conflict. 

Tragedy in Lithuania: 3 U.S. Soldiers Confirmed Dead, One Still Missing After Peat Bog Accident

In a devastating incident during a training exercise in Lithuania, three U.S. Army soldiers have been confirmed dead, while a fourth remains missing after their armored recovery vehicle became submerged in a peat bog. The soldiers, all from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, were deployed to Lithuania as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve, supporting NATO’s deterrence efforts in Eastern Europe. 

The tragic incident occurred on the morning of March 25, when the soldiers’ M88A2 Hercules armored recovery vehicle sank into a dense peat bog during a mission to recover an immobilized tactical vehicle. Despite the swift response from American and Lithuanian armed forces, the challenging terrain hampered immediate rescue efforts. 

The identities of the fallen soldiers are being withheld until families are notified, according to the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Public Affairs Office. Recovery operations remain ongoing for the fourth missing soldier. 

Over the past six days, a coordinated search effort involving hundreds of American and Lithuanian soldiers, law enforcement, and specialized equipment has scoured the forested and swampy terrain of the accident site. The rescue operation required the use of Lithuanian military helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, fixed-wing aircraft, and heavy-duty excavation tools. Hundreds of tons of gravel and earth were brought in to stabilize the soft ground, allowing the 63-ton armored vehicle to be extracted early Monday morning. 

Major General Christopher Norrie, commanding general of the 3rd Infantry Division, expressed profound grief over the tragic loss: 

> “The Soldiers we have lost in this tragedy were not just Soldiers — they were a part of our family. Our hearts are heavy with a sorrow that echoes across the whole Marne Division, both forward and at home. We stand in grief with the families and loved ones of these extraordinary ‘Dogface Soldiers’ during this unimaginable time. But the search isn’t finished until everyone is home.” 

The U.S. Army and Lithuanian authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident. The incident underscores the inherent risks associated with military training exercises, particularly in challenging environments. 

Lithuania, a NATO member since 2004 and a former Soviet republic, has hosted hundreds of U.S. troops since 2014 as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve. The mission was established in response to Russia’s annexation of Crimea, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to European security and deterrence. 

As the search for the missing soldier continues, the U.S. Army mourns the loss of these brave soldiers who dedicated their lives to duty and defense. 

Stock Markets Plummet Ahead of Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ Amid Global Economic Uncertainty

Stock markets around the world are experiencing a sharp downturn as President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” draws closer. On Monday, financial markets from Wall Street to Wellington, New Zealand, posted significant losses, reflecting investor anxiety over the upcoming tariffs and economic policies set to be unveiled by the U.S. administration. 

In New York, the S&P 500 index fell 0.6%, following one of its worst sessions in recent years on Friday. The index is on track to close the first quarter with a nearly 6% decline, marking its most challenging quarter in nearly three years. 

As uncertainty grows, investors are flocking to safer assets. Gold prices surged, briefly surpassing $3,160 per ounce. U.S. Treasury bonds also gained traction, driving yields lower. The 10-year Treasury yield dropped to 4.22% from 4.27% on Friday, significantly down from 4.80% in January. 

Set for April 2, Trump’s “Liberation Day” is expected to bring the introduction of “reciprocal” tariffs aimed at leveling the trade imbalance by matching taxes and fees imposed by foreign countries on American goods. Goldman Sachs economists anticipate an average 15% reciprocal tariff, warning that these measures could escalate inflation and stifle U.S. economic growth. 

David Mericle, a Goldman Sachs economist, raised the probability of a U.S. recession within the next year to 35%, up from 20% previously. The revised forecast reflects concerns about reduced economic growth, eroding consumer confidence, and the administration’s apparent willingness to endure economic hardship for perceived trade benefits. 

The tariffs could range from moderate to extreme, and uncertainty surrounding their scope has rattled investors. If the measures are less severe than anticipated, markets may rally. However, aggressive tariffs could trigger a deeper sell-off and potentially lead businesses to cut workforces—an outcome not yet observed. 

Michael Wilson of Morgan Stanley warned that even if tariffs are less damaging than feared, the uncertainty they create could freeze consumer and business spending, threatening an economy that was robust just months ago. 

Tech giants and electric vehicle companies were among the hardest hit on Wall Street. Tesla’s stock plunged 4.7% on Monday, deepening its 2025 loss to 37.8%. The electric carmaker’s fortunes have soured amid criticism of CEO Elon Musk, whose close ties to the Trump administration once buoyed investor sentiment.  

Nvidia, a leading player in artificial intelligence technology, tumbled 4.1%, extending its year-to-date decline to 21.7%. The tech sector’s sharp drop follows concerns over valuations that have far outpaced earnings growth in recent years. 

Stocks of companies reliant on consumer spending also suffered. United Airlines fell 4.8%, while Delta Air Lines slipped 2.8%. 

Mr. Cooper, a home loan servicer, saw its shares surge 16.6% after announcing an all-stock acquisition by mortgage company Rocket valued at $9.4 billion. The acquisition follows Rocket’s recent purchase of real estate company Redfin. Rocket’s stock, however, dropped 7.8% on the news. 

In Southeast Asia, Thailand’s SET index lost 1.5% after a devastating earthquake struck Myanmar (Burma), causing widespread damage. Shares in Italian Thai Development, which was constructing a 30-story high-rise that collapsed during the quake, plummeted 26.9%. Thai authorities are investigating the cause of the disaster, which left dozens missing. 

As the world braces for Trump’s “Liberation Day,” investors face a volatile market landscape. The scope of the upcoming tariffs remains uncertain, with fears of a worst-case scenario triggering more losses. Analysts suggest April 2 may only serve as a stepping stone for further negotiations, prolonging the climate of uncertainty. 

Kanye West Regrets Having Kids with Kim Kardashian, Wears KKK Hood in Controversial Interview

LOS ANGELES  — Kanye West revealed in a controversial interview with DJ Akademiks that he did not want to have children with Kim Kardashian early in their relationship, blaming himself for the situation while wearing an all-black Ku Klux Klan outfit, complete with the hate group’s iconic hood. 

The “All Falls Down” rapper, 47, acknowledged, “Absolutely, I did. That was my fault. No, that was my fault.” He added, “I didn’t want to have children with this person after the first two months of being with them, but that wasn’t God’s plan.” 

The interview drew widespread criticism due to West’s choice of attire. Page Six reached out to Kardashian’s representatives but received no immediate response. 

West and Kardashian, 44, share four children: North, 11, Saint, 9, Chicago, 7, and Psalm, 5. The former couple’s co-parenting relationship has been turbulent, with recent disputes surrounding West’s attempts to feature their eldest child on a song with rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs, who faces sex trafficking charges. Kardashian reportedly sought a court order to block the song’s release, citing concerns over her daughter’s association with Combs. 

A source close to Kardashian said, “Kim’s priority is the well-being and safety of her children and to protect them from Kanye’s controversial behavior.” 

Despite Kardashian’s objections, West shared the track on social media and demanded changes to North’s trademark to include his name. He later accused Kardashian and her family of limiting his parental rights, calling their custody arrangement “visitation in jail.” 

“ALL THESE RIGHTS HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM ME BY THE KARDASHIAN MOB, HULU, AND DISNEY AND THE BIGGER AGENDA TO USE THE SELECTIVELY BRED BLACK CHILDREN TO BE PLATFORMS TO INFLUENCE BLACK PEOPLE,” West wrote on X on March 15. 

Tensions escalated further when Kardashian reportedly cut short North’s recent visit with her father upon learning Andrew Tate and his brother, Tristan Tate—both facing rape and human trafficking charges—were present. 

Kardashian is reportedly considering revising her custody agreement with West. The former couple was married from 2014 until their divorce in 2022. 

Kremlin Says Russia, U.S. Working on Ukraine Peace Amid Trump’s Frustration with Putin

MOSCOW  — The Kremlin announced Monday that Russia and the United States are working on ideas for a potential peace settlement in Ukraine and improving bilateral relations, despite U.S. President Donald Trump expressing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

Trump told NBC News he was “pissed off” after Putin questioned the credibility of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The U.S. president suggested imposing secondary tariffs of 25% to 50% on buyers of Russian oil if a peace deal is not reached. Later, Trump reiterated to reporters that he was disappointed with Putin but added, “I think we are making progress, step by step.” 

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed ongoing cooperation with Washington, emphasizing efforts to rebuild ties strained during the previous U.S. administration. 

“We are continuing to work with the American side, first of all, to build our bilateral relations, which were badly damaged during the previous administration,” Peskov said. “And we are also working on the implementation of some ideas related to the Ukrainian settlement. This work is underway, but so far there are no specifics that we could or should tell you about. This is a time-consuming process, probably due to its complexity.” 

Peskov added that a call between Trump and Putin could be arranged quickly if needed, though no meeting was planned for this week. 

Trump, who has consistently stated his desire to be remembered as a peacemaker, has called for an end to the three-year conflict in Ukraine and warned of the risks of escalation into a broader war between the United States and Russia. 

Since taking office in January, Trump has adopted a more conciliatory approach toward Russia, raising concerns among Western allies as he seeks a resolution to the Ukraine conflict. His comments on Sunday underscored his frustration over the lack of progress on a ceasefire. 

“If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault … I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia,” Trump warned. 

He added, “That would be, that if you buy oil from Russia, you can’t do business in the United States. There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, a 25- to 50-point tariff on all oil.” 

Oil prices were largely stable on Monday as traders assessed the potential impact of Trump’s threat on Russia, the world’s second-largest oil exporter. China and India, which import about 80% of Russian crude, showed little concern. Beijing reaffirmed that its cooperation with Russia is independent of third-party influence, while India declined to comment. 

Amid Trump’s push for a peace deal in Ukraine, discussions around minerals cooperation have emerged, although Trump said Sunday that Zelenskiy was reconsidering a proposed agreement. 

Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s investment envoy, confirmed Monday that Russia and the U.S. have initiated talks on joint rare earth metals and other projects in Russia, with some companies expressing interest. 

“There are no specifics here yet, but the interest is evident. The interest is mutual because we’re talking about mutually beneficial projects,” Peskov told reporters. 

France’s Le Pen Barred from 2027 Presidential Race Following Graft Conviction

PARIS  — French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has been banned from running for public office for five years after a court convicted her of embezzling European Union funds, effectively disqualifying her from the 2027 presidential race. 

The ruling marks a significant setback for Le Pen, the chief of the National Rally (RN) party and a prominent figure in European far-right politics. She had been a leading contender for the 2027 election, consistently polling as a front-runner. 

The court sentenced Le Pen to four years in prison—two years suspended and two to be served under home detention—and imposed a fine of 100,000 euros ($108,200). Her five-year ban from office took immediate effect under a provisional execution measure, though her lawyer confirmed she would appeal. The prison sentence and fine are suspended pending the outcome of the appeal, a process that could take months or years. 

RN President Jordan Bardella condemned the ruling, calling it an attack on democracy. “Today, it is not only Marine Le Pen who was unjustly convicted; it was French democracy that was killed,” Bardella said. 

Le Pen, who has run for president three times and previously stated 2027 would be her final bid, now depends on an appeals judge overturning the ruling before the election. 

Le Pen’s allies in France and far-right leaders from Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands criticized the ruling as judicial overreach. Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, head of the far-right League, voiced his support: “We will not be intimidated, we will not stop: full steam ahead, my friend!” 

Le Pen left the Paris courtroom before Judge Benedicte de Perthuis delivered the verdict. She is expected to address the ruling in a televised interview on TF1 later Monday. 

The court found Le Pen and two dozen RN members guilty of diverting more than 4 million euros ($4.33 million) of EU funds. Though the defendants were not accused of personal enrichment, the court determined the funds were misused to benefit the party. Judge de Perthuis stated that Le Pen was “at the heart” of the scheme, adding that the misuse was intentional and not due to administrative errors. 

Le Pen’s supporters argue the prosecution is politically motivated, with the case casting a shadow over the party’s future. Bardella is now poised to lead the RN in the 2027 race, but analysts question whether he can command broad voter support. 

Political analyst Arnaud Benedetti called the ruling a “seismic political event” that will reshape French politics. He expressed doubts about Bardella’s ability to replicate Le Pen’s electoral success, saying, “I am not sure Jordan Bardella’s political proposition is mature enough to compete credibly in the presidential election.” 

The court also convicted eight former RN lawmakers and 12 parliamentary assistants on similar charges. 

UPDATED: US Bank Exec Terry Dolan Feared Dead in Fiery Minnesota Plane Crash  

A tragic plane crash in Brooklyn Park, a suburb of Minneapolis, Minnesota, has left US Bank executive Terry Dolan, 63, feared dead. Officials at US Bank believe Dolan was piloting the SOCATA TBM-700 aircraft that crashed into a residential home on Saturday, causing a massive blaze. 

Dramatic Ring doorbell footage obtained by CNN captured the moment the single-engine plane barreled into the ground, triggering a devastating fire. The impact destroyed the home, but the resident inside managed to escape unharmed. A woman who lived in the house was reportedly walking her dog at the time of the crash, according to NBC affiliate KARE-TV. 

The pilot was confirmed dead, though authorities have not officially identified the victim. US Bank, however, revealed their belief that the deceased was Dolan, as the aircraft was registered in his name. Dolan, who joined US Bank in 1998, was named Chief Administration Officer in 2023 and played a key role in driving company growth. 

The aircraft departed from Des Moines Airport in Iowa at 11:10 a.m. local time, after an earlier flight from Naples, Florida. It was en route to Anoka County-Blaine Airport in Minneapolis when it crashed around 12:20 p.m., just minutes before its scheduled landing. 

Air traffic control officers at Anoka airport reportedly warned the pilot he was flying too low, as reported by ABC affiliate KSTP-TV. The aircraft crashed shortly afterward. 

Shocked neighbors shared their disbelief following the incident. Immaculate Tamunang, a neighbor, told KSTP-TV, “It’s really scary; you never know it will be the same for this family. Just praying for God to give them the strength to go through this.” Kelly Bier, another neighbor, was left “shaking” by the harrowing event. 

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash, with preliminary findings expected within 10 to 14 days. 

The crash marks yet another tragic incident in a series of aviation accidents in the United States. In January, a collision involving an American Airlines plane and a Black Hawk helicopter claimed 67 lives in Virginia. In February, 10 people were killed after a plane vanished off the coast of Alaska. 

Nigerian Boxer Gabriel Olanrewaju Dies During Ghana Boxing League Bout 

Nigerian light-heavyweight boxer Gabriel Oluwaseun Olanrewaju, popularly known as “Success,” tragically passed away during a match against Ghana’s Jonathan Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Saturday, March 29. The bout was a special feature of the Bel 7 Star Professional Boxing League fight night. 

The eight-round light-heavyweight contest was expected to be a thrilling encounter, but the atmosphere quickly turned somber. After Olanrewaju landed two light punches on Mbanugu, the Ghanaian fighter—nicknamed “Jon Power”—responded with a powerful right hand. Olanrewaju staggered backward, slumped against the ropes, and collapsed, shocking fans and officials alike. 

He struggled to breathe as his corner team rushed to his aid, removing his gum shield and attempting resuscitation. The on-site medical team swiftly transported Olanrewaju to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. 

The 40-year-old Nigerian boxer, based in Lagos, began his professional career in 2019, securing a debut victory against Jimoh Najeem on July 30, 2019. He went on to win two more bouts before suffering his first career loss to Durodola Olanrewaju via fourth-round technical knockout. 

Olanrewaju’s career was marked by a series of challenges, including a four-fight losing streak before his final bout. He struggled in international competition, losing all six matches in Russia and two in Nigeria. At the time of his death, his professional record stood at 13 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws, with 12 of his victories coming by knockout. 

The tragic incident has deeply affected the boxing fraternity in Ghana and Nigeria. The Ghana Boxing Authority, which sanctioned the match, has yet to release an official statement. The event has reignited discussions around fighter safety and the adequacy of medical protocols in boxing events. 

Olanrewaju’s passing is a somber reminder of the inherent risks of combat sports and the need for stringent safety measures. The loss of “Success” has left a void in African boxing and raised concerns about the well-being of fighters in the ring. 

Trump Suggests Third Term Possibilities: Legal Loopholes and Political Controversy 

U.S. President Donald Trump recently hinted at the possibility of serving a third term, telling “Meet the Press” on Sunday that while he’s “focused on the current” and it’s “very early in the administration,” many Americans would like him to run again. Trump reiterated, “I’m not joking,” when referencing his past remarks about staying in power beyond two terms. He previously told GOP lawmakers, “I suspect I won’t be running again unless you say, ‘He’s so good we’ve got to figure something else out.’” 

The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution limits presidents to two elected terms. However, Trump argues it bars third terms only if the two terms are consecutive. This interpretation, which legal scholars widely reject, would mean Trump could run for a third term due to the four-year gap between his first and second terms. 

Trump suggested “methods” he could use to serve a third term, acknowledging the possibility of running as vice president in 2028. The scenario would involve his running mate resigning after winning the election, allowing Trump to assume office. Trump declined to elaborate on other potential methods. 

While Trump’s suggestion might seem far-fetched, legal experts have debated this scenario for years. In a 1999 article, legal scholars Bruce G. Peabody and Scott E. Gant noted the 22nd Amendment doesn’t explicitly prohibit a former president from serving again without being elected—such as through the line of succession. However, the 12th Amendment states, “No person constitutionally ineligible to the office of President shall be eligible to that of Vice-President of the United States.” This contradiction would likely prompt intense legal scrutiny and constitutional challenges. 

Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) recently introduced a resolution to amend the Constitution to allow a third term if the first two terms were not consecutive. However, the proposal would need a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate and approval from three-quarters of all states—a nearly impossible feat given the current political landscape. 

Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed during her Senate confirmation hearing that Trump would be constitutionally barred from running for a third term unless the Constitution is amended. 

Trump’s suggestion mirrors moves by global leaders who have circumvented term limits, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Putin maintained power in 2008 by serving as prime minister, later returning to the presidency after extending term limits. Similarly, Xi’s government abolished term limits, allowing him to stay in power indefinitely. 

The 22nd Amendment was passed by Congress in 1947 and ratified in 1951 after Franklin D. Roosevelt broke the two-term precedent set by George Washington, serving four consecutive terms. 

Though a third term is constitutionally improbable, Trump’s remarks have reignited speculation. Allies like Steve Bannon have publicly discussed plans for Trump to run in 2028, suggesting legal strategies are being explored. 

Whether these ideas gain traction remains to be seen, but the debate highlights ongoing questions about constitutional limits and the resilience of American democracy.