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Elon Musk Calls for Free Trade Zone Between Europe and U.S., Opposes Trump’s Tariff Hike

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Tesla CEO Elon Musk has publicly advocated for a “zero tariff” trade agreement between the United States and Europe, offering a sharp contrast to President Donald Trump’s newly announced tariff strategy.

Speaking at *The League Congress*, an event hosted by Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini on Saturday, Musk said he supports the creation of a U.S.–Europe free trade zone that eliminates tariffs and increases mobility between the continents.

 “I hope it is agreed that both Europe and the United States should move, ideally, in my view, to a zero tariff situation — effectively creating a free trade zone,” Musk said during his live-streamed appearance. “Also, more freedom of movement for people between Europe and North America should be allowed, if they wish to work in either region.”

The comments mark a notable departure from Musk’s previous alignment with Trump, especially given the former president’s escalating trade war. Just days earlier, Trump announced sweeping new tariffs, including a proposed 20% tariff on imports from the European Union, triggering a sharp downturn in global markets.

On Thursday, one day after the White House announcement, major U.S. stock indices tumbled: the S&P 500 dropped nearly 5%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 4%, and the Nasdaq plummeted 6% — the steepest declines since the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the White House press conference, Trump defended the measures, describing the U.S. as having been *“looted, pillaged, raped and plundered”* by trade deals he believes have harmed the American economy. He promised the beginning of what he termed a “golden age of America.”

In a follow-up post on Truth Social, Trump doubled down: 

 “THIS IS AN ECONOMIC REVOLUTION, AND WE WILL WIN. HANG TOUGH… We will MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen responded swiftly, writing on X (formerly Twitter), 

 “Europe is prepared to respond. We’ll always protect our interests and values. We’re also ready to engage. And to go from confrontation to negotiation.”

The EU, along with other nations affected by the tariffs, has signaled potential retaliatory measures later this month, setting the stage for a renewed global trade dispute.

Musk’s vision diverges sharply from the protectionist policies championed by Trump. As a business leader with global operations—including Tesla factories and partnerships across Europe—Musk has long advocated for freer trade, reduced regulatory barriers, and increased cross-border labor mobility.

While the White House and Musk’s spokespersons have not yet commented on the remarks, the tech billionaire’s comments come at a critical juncture in U.S. foreign economic policy and global market stability.

As geopolitical and trade tensions rise, Musk’s endorsement of free trade could reignite the debate on globalization’s role in economic growth versus national interest protectionism.

Terrence Howard Alleges Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Made Unwanted Advances: “I Don’t Bend Over in That Way”

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Award-winning actor Terrence Howard has alleged that music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs made an inappropriate sexual advance during what was initially pitched as a professional collaboration.

In a revealing appearance on the *PBD Podcast* Friday, Howard, 56, said Combs had repeatedly invited him to serve as his acting coach. However, when he arrived for the sessions, the interactions took an unexpected turn.

“He’d invite me over for weeks, saying he wanted me to help with acting,” Howard said. “But every time I showed up, he’d just sit and stare at me.”

Howard claimed the odd behavior escalated when Combs asked to hear his music. But instead of engaging, he allegedly continued to sit silently. Feeling uneasy, Howard said he consulted his assistant, who allegedly responded, *“I think he’s trying to sleep with you.”*

Following that interaction, Howard said he severed all communication with Combs.

“You learn quickly to be hands off,” he remarked. “I’ve had to threaten a few producers in the past who crossed boundaries. When you challenge a man’s masculinity, you get a real reaction.”

Howard emphasized his personal and professional boundaries, stating: “I’ve lost work because I don’t compromise. I don’t play gay roles. I don’t kiss men. That’s just not me.”

This is the first public allegation from a well-known male celebrity suggesting Combs made a direct sexual advance toward him. Page Six has reached out to Combs’ representatives for comment but has yet to receive a response.

Howard’s statement comes as Combs faces a growing number of legal issues, including federal sex trafficking charges and multiple civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and misconduct. Among the most recent claims, a man named Joseph Manzaro filed a lawsuit accusing Combs of both facilitating trafficking and committing acts of sexual violence in 2015.

Combs, who is currently in custody awaiting trial scheduled for May 5, has denied all allegations and pleaded not guilty to the federal charges. In a previous statement, his legal team described the lawsuits as “baseless” and motivated by financial gain.

The incident adds another layer to the previously reported strained relationship between Combs and Howard. In 2014, Page Six reported that Combs allegedly blocked his stepson Quincy Brown from appearing on Howard’s hit series *Empire* over music rights disputes. The move raised eyebrows in entertainment circles but was never confirmed to be personally motivated.

While Howard is the most prominent figure to speak out publicly about Combs’ alleged behavior, other celebrities, including Nick Cannon, have distanced themselves from long-standing rumors surrounding Combs’ alleged “Freak-Off” parties. Former mentee Justin Bieber has also taken steps to dissociate himself from the embattled music executive.

As the investigations continue, more alleged victims — both male and female — are stepping forward. Legal experts anticipate that the upcoming trial will be a high-profile and closely watched case in the entertainment industry.

78 Kenyans Rescued from Human Trafficking Syndicates in Myanmar Arrive at JKIA

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A total of 78 Kenyans who were victims of human trafficking schemes in Myanmar arrived safely at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Saturday, completing a government-led repatriation initiative facilitated by the Kenyan Embassy in Thailand.

The group arrived in two batches — 47 individuals landed in the morning, while another 31 followed around midday, traveling via Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines. The group was received at JKIA by Roseline Njogu, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Diaspora Affairs.

Upon arrival, the returnees were cleared by immigration authorities and are expected to provide formal statements to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). These statements will help Kenyan authorities understand how the victims were trafficked to Southeast Asia and build cases against trafficking networks.

Speaking to the media, some of the returnees shared harrowing experiences of physical abuse and psychological torment endured at the hands of the syndicates behind the scams. They revealed that failure to meet imposed demands led to beatings and other forms of mistreatment.

This operation follows a similar repatriation two weeks earlier, during which 48 Kenyans were rescued at the Thailand-Myanmar border and safely returned home.

What was advertised as high-paying job opportunities in Myanmar turned out to be a cover for a sophisticated human trafficking network targeting unsuspecting job seekers. Kenyan officials have warned citizens against taking overseas job offers without proper documentation.

The government has emphasized that individuals should possess verified work visas or permits before traveling abroad for employment. In addition, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs is urging all prospective migrant workers to authenticate foreign job offers through official channels.

“There are no jobs in Thailand, India, or Malaysia. These countries also face significant unemployment. If someone is offering you a job in these places, it’s likely a trafficking trap. Report them immediately,” PS Njogu warned in a public advisory posted on X on January 24, 2025.

Nationwide Anti-Trump Protests Erupt Across U.S. and Abroad Amid Government Overhaul Concerns

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Tens of thousands of Americans took to the streets across the United States and in cities abroad on Saturday in one of the largest coordinated protest actions since President Donald Trump returned to office. The protests, organized across all 50 states and internationally, focused on the administration’s controversial DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) initiative, economic policies, and efforts to consolidate executive power.

In Washington, D.C., demonstrators gathered by the tens of thousands on the National Mall despite rainy skies. The rally at the Washington Monument was one of over 1,200 planned events. Organizers reported that more than 150 activist groups had joined forces for the movement, with satellite demonstrations held in Canada, Mexico, and major European capitals.

Among the protesters was Terry Klein, a retired scientist from New Jersey, who criticized Trump’s policies on immigration, education, and tariffs. “Our entire country—our institutions, our values—are under attack,” she said.

Throughout the day, demonstrators waving Palestinian keffiyehs and Ukrainian flags called for justice on global issues, while lawmakers from the Democratic Party denounced Trump’s agenda on stage. Many held signs reading “Save Social Security” and “Stop DOGE Cuts,” voicing concerns over the elimination of federal jobs and social benefits.

Wayne Hoffman, a retired financial adviser from New Jersey, warned that Trump’s trade policies and widespread tariff usage could devastate the economy. “Farmers are going to lose their livelihoods, retirement accounts are collapsing, and jobs are disappearing,” he said.

While the protests were mostly peaceful, some Trump supporters engaged in debate along the rally’s periphery. Kyle, a 20-year-old intern from Ohio, donned a MAGA hat and said he felt isolated but was eager to talk with opponents. “Some people get angry, but many just want to talk,” he noted.

In Florida, President Trump spent the day golfing at his Jupiter club, returning later to Mar-a-Lago. Just a few miles away in West Palm Beach, more than 400 demonstrators rallied, chanting slogans like “Markets crash, Trump golfs.”

Similar protests occurred in Stamford, Connecticut, where 84-year-old Sue-ann Friedman decried the administration’s proposed cuts to medical research. “I never thought I’d be protesting again at this age,” she said.

Paul Kretschmann, 74, a retired attorney also protesting for the first time, voiced deep fears over the future of Social Security. “This is part of a broader effort to dismantle the government and let Trump retain control,” he warned.

The Department of Government Efficiency, backed by Elon Musk and Trump, has laid off over 200,000 federal workers in recent months. On Friday, the IRS began shedding 20,000 staff—approximately 25% of its workforce.

Near Baltimore, protesters gathered outside the Social Security Administration headquarters to oppose what they see as efforts to dismantle the agency that supports millions of elderly and disabled Americans.

Linda Falcao, 64, spoke passionately about paying into the system since she was 16. “I’m heartbroken. I need the benefits I was promised. It’s our money!” she declared, as the crowd echoed her cry.

In response, White House Assistant Press Secretary Liz Huston defended the administration. “President Trump remains committed to protecting Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Democrats, meanwhile, are pushing to extend benefits to illegal immigrants, which would bankrupt these vital programs,” she said.

Many aspects of Trump’s second-term agenda have faced legal challenges, with courts reviewing his attempts to fire civil servants, restrict immigration, and roll back LGBTQ+ protections. Critics link the president’s aggressive moves to Project 2025, a conservative blueprint to transform U.S. governance and concentrate power in the executive branch.

Solidarity protests also broke out in Europe. American expatriates demonstrated in Berlin, Paris, Frankfurt, and London, condemning the administration’s foreign policy shifts and rollback of civil rights.

As opposition grows both at home and abroad, the Trump administration continues to push forward with its transformative policies—polarizing the nation and fueling unprecedented levels of civic activism.

UK Labour MP Dan Norris Arrested on Suspicion of Rape and Child Sexual Offences

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Dan Norris, the Labour MP for North East Somerset and Hanham, has been arrested in connection with serious allegations involving rape and child sexual abuse. He was taken into custody on Friday, April 4, on suspicion of multiple offences, including rape, sexual offences against a girl, child abduction, and misconduct in public office.

Following the arrest, the Labour Party immediately suspended Norris from the party. A party spokesperson confirmed the suspension, stating that no further comment could be made while the police investigation remains ongoing.

According to Avon and Somerset Police, the arrest stems from a referral made by another UK police force in December 2024. The case involves allegations of non-recent child sexual abuse believed to have occurred in the 2000s, as well as an alleged rape incident from the 2020s. Officers from Operation Bluestone, the force’s dedicated rape and serious sexual assault team, are leading the investigation.

Police confirmed that Norris, 65, was arrested under the Sexual Offences Act 1956 and the Sexual Offences Act 2003. He has since been released on conditional bail as the investigation continues. Authorities have asked the public not to speculate on the case to avoid compromising ongoing inquiries.

The victim involved is receiving appropriate support, according to the police statement.

Norris, who returned to Parliament in 2024 after unseating former Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, previously served as MP for Wansdyke from 1997 to 2010. During his earlier tenure, he held junior ministerial roles under Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. He also served as West of England Mayor from 2021 and had announced plans to step down from the role ahead of the May 2025 local elections.

As a result of the arrest, Norris has lost the party whip in the House of Commons and has stepped down from his position as Chair of the League Against Cruel Sports, a leading UK animal welfare charity. A spokesperson for the organization confirmed his resignation and stated they would not comment further while the investigation is active.

This latest development adds to the ongoing scrutiny of the UK Parliament, with renewed calls for stricter safeguards and vetting processes for public officials facing serious allegations.

Israel’s Airstrike in Lebanon Eliminates Senior Hamas Commander, Raising Ceasefire Concerns

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In a move that could escalate regional tensions, Israel conducted an airstrike in southern Lebanon on Friday, killing senior Hamas commander Hassan Farhat. The strike marks a significant challenge to the fragile ceasefire brokered in late 2023 between Israel and Hezbollah, Lebanon’s Iran-backed militant group.

According to the Israeli military, Farhat was responsible for a rocket attack last year on the city of Safed that resulted in Israeli casualties. Labeling Farhat a key militant operative, the military stated it would continue to target Hamas operatives “wherever they operate.” 

A Lebanese security source confirmed that Farhat was killed alongside his son and daughter in their apartment in Sidon, a southern Lebanese city. Hamas’ armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, confirmed his death and hailed his “blessed contributions” to the group’s operations against Israel.

In a swift reaction, Hezbollah issued a strongly worded condemnation, warning that the strike on Sidon indicated Israel’s intent to expand its aggression across Lebanon. “This attack is evidence of the enemy’s plan to widen the scope of its operations and target all of Lebanon,” Hezbollah said in a statement.

Hamas and Hezbollah have long-standing ties, and Hezbollah launched numerous cross-border attacks in 2023 in solidarity with Hamas during the war in Gaza. Israel responded with a wide-ranging campaign across Lebanon, significantly weakening Hezbollah’s leadership structure.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s office denounced Friday’s airstrike as a clear violation of the U.S.-mediated ceasefire agreement, which has increasingly shown signs of strain. Since November, both sides have exchanged fire: Israel has launched airstrikes on Hezbollah-held areas in Beirut’s southern suburbs, and rockets have been launched from Lebanon toward Israeli territory on at least two occasions.

Hezbollah, while denying involvement in recent rocket attacks, criticized the ceasefire’s sponsors, particularly the United States, for allegedly ignoring repeated Israeli violations. The U.S. has backed Israel’s stance, defending its right to self-defense and blaming “terrorist elements” for renewed hostilities.

With the ceasefire now appearing increasingly fragile and both sides ramping up rhetoric and retaliatory measures, the region faces the growing threat of renewed large-scale conflict.

U.S. Secures Extradition of Fugitives for Murder, Drug Trafficking, Child Sexual Abuse, and Cybercrime

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In a major international law enforcement operation, the United States Department of Justice has secured the extradition of several fugitives from Canada, Colombia, Germany, Honduras, Kosovo, Israel, Mexico, Spain, and Thailand. These individuals face serious criminal charges, including murder, drug trafficking, child sexual abuse, cybercrime, money laundering, and fraud. The coordinated efforts between U.S. agencies and international authorities have led to the capture and return of these high-profile fugitives to stand trial.

Key Extradited Fugitives and Their Charges

Murder and Child Sexual Abuse Cases

Roberto Avina-Casillas (Mexico to Ohio) – A 30-year-old Mexican citizen accused of murder, felonious assault, and endangering children. Avina-Casillas evaded capture for over a decade following the 2013 death of his ex-girlfriend’s 3-year-old son.

Justin David Lanoue (Canada to Utah) – A 44-year-old Canadian citizen facing charges related to child rape and felony sexual abuse of a minor, stemming from an incident first investigated in 2015.

Sexual Assault and Kidnapping Cases

Dominik Rydz (Germany to Michigan) – A 24-year-old Polish national accused of criminal sexual conduct and unlawful imprisonment. In September 2023, Rydz allegedly lured a woman away from a social gathering and sexually assaulted her. After initially being arrested in Poland, he fled to Germany, where he was captured under an INTERPOL Red Notice.

Financial Fraud and Money Laundering Cases

Olof Kyros Gustafsson aka “El Silencio” (Spain to California) – A 31-year-old Swedish national indicted on conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. Gustafsson is accused of fraudulently licensing the name and likeness of the late Colombian drug kingpin Pablo Escobar to sell fake products, including flamethrowers and cell phones, defrauding investors worldwide.

Jose Guillermo Granja Rojas (Colombia to Georgia) – A 36-year-old Mexican national charged with money laundering for a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization (DTO). He allegedly handled hundreds of thousands of dollars in drug proceeds from methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine sales in the United States.

Cybercrime and Identity Theft Cases

Ardit Kutleshi & Jetmir Kutleshi (Kosovo to Pennsylvania) – The two Kosovo nationals were extradited for identity theft, access device fraud, and money laundering. They are accused of administering Rydox, a cybercrime marketplace specializing in stolen personal data and illicit financial tools.

Drug Trafficking Cases

Rene Javier Santos Alfaro (Honduras to Florida) – A 53-year-old Honduran citizen allegedly played a key role in an international drug smuggling operation that transported large cocaine shipments from Honduras to Miami via commercial aircraft.

Cristian Eduardo Garcia Jerez (Colombia to Georgia) – A 36-year-old Colombian national accused of operating cocaine laboratories and coordinating shipments from Colombia to the United States.

Tien Vy Tai Truong (Thailand to California) – A 46-year-old accused of being a leader in a transnational drug trafficking network. He allegedly attempted to export 200 pounds of methamphetamine to Australia.

Global Cooperation in Extradition Efforts

These extraditions highlight extensive international cooperation between the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Office of International Affairs (OIA), INTERPOL, and various law enforcement agencies across nine countries. The Justice Department’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section and the Office of Judicial Attach√© in Bogot√°, Colombia, played a crucial role in securing these arrests.

The U.S. Criminal Division’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance, and Training (OPDAT) also supported the extradition process, particularly in cases from Kosovo and Colombia. Officials from Spain, Mexico, and Thailand provided significant support in bringing these fugitives to justice.

All individuals remain presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Source: DOJ

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Faces New Sex Trafficking and Prostitution Charges Ahead of Trial

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Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has been hit with two additional federal charges, including sex trafficking and engaging in prostitution, just weeks before his scheduled trial in New York. The latest accusations, revealed in a Manhattan court on Friday, allege Combs coerced and transported a victim for commercial sex acts from 2021 to 2024. 

Combs has denied all allegations, with his legal team arguing that the charges stem from consensual relationships rather than coercion. “These are not new allegations or new accusers,” his attorneys said in a statement to CBS News. “These are the same individuals, former long-term girlfriends, who were engaged in consensual relationships.” 

The new charges follow a grand jury indictment last year that accused Combs of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution. The latest counts bring the total number of federal charges against him to five. Prosecutors have not disclosed details about the most recent offenses but say they stem from an ongoing grand jury investigation. 

Combs was first indicted in 2024 on allegations dating back to 2009, involving claims of kidnapping, drugging, and coercing women into sex acts—sometimes using threats or firearms. Authorities also pointed to a police raid on his Los Angeles mansion, where they reportedly found illicit substances and items allegedly used in organized sex parties known as “freak offs.” 

Once one of the most powerful figures in the music industry, Combs built an empire through Bad Boy Records, propelling the careers of Mary J. Blige, the Notorious B.I.G., Faith Evans, and Jennifer Lopez. He later gained mainstream fame with reality TV ventures on MTV and VH1. 

However, his legacy has been overshadowed by mounting legal troubles. Since his indictment, multiple lawsuits have surfaced, accusing Combs of sexual assault, drugging, and intimidation. He is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, with his trial set to begin on May 5. 

Russian Missile Strike Kills 16 in Zelenskyy’s Hometown as Drone Attacks Intensify

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At least 16 people, including six children, were killed in a Russian missile strike on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s hometown, Kryvyi Rih, according to Ukrainian officials. The attack, which left at least 50 people wounded, was followed by a wave of drone strikes later in the day, further escalating tensions. 

Ukraine’s President condemned the strike, stating that Russia “does not want a ceasefire.” He emphasized that “every missile, every drone attack proves that Russia only wants war.” He urged international support to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense, stressing that global pressure on Russia is key to determining when the war will end. 

Regional governor Serhiy Lysak confirmed that more than 30 of the wounded, including a three-month-old baby, were hospitalized. Local authorities reported significant damage, with 20 apartment buildings, over 30 vehicles, an educational facility, and a restaurant impacted. Emergency responders were on-site, while psychologists provided support to survivors. 

The Russian defense ministry described the strike as a “high-precision” operation, claiming it targeted “a meeting of unit commanders and Western instructors” at a restaurant in the city. The ministry further alleged that the attack resulted in the deaths of up to 85 Ukrainian and foreign military personnel, along with the destruction of 20 vehicles. 

Later on Friday, Kryvyi Rih came under a “massive” drone attack, according to local military official Oleksandr Vilkul. He reported multiple fires at different sites following impacts from Shahed drones, a type of Iranian-designed unmanned aerial weapon. 

The escalation comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to negotiate a ceasefire. In Brussels, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Washington is “not interested in negotiations about negotiations” and signaled that time is running out for Russia to demonstrate genuine intent toward peace. 

“In the end, it will be clear whether Russia wants peace or not—and that time is approaching fast,” Rubio said during a NATO meeting. 

The United States had previously brokered a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine in March, followed by limited agreements over energy infrastructure. However, both Ukraine and Russia have since accused each other of violating these agreements. 

Meanwhile, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for “dragging his feet” on ceasefire talks while continuing to target Ukrainian civilians and energy supplies. “We see you, Vladimir Putin. We know what you are doing,” Lammy said, reaffirming Western opposition to Russian aggression. 

TikTok Deal Halted as China Signals Rejection Over Trump’s Tariff Hike, Sources Say

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WASHINGTON  — A long-anticipated deal to spin off TikTok’s U.S. operations has been put on hold after China privately signaled it would reject the agreement in response to President Donald Trump’s latest tariff escalation, according to two people familiar with the matter.

The deal, which was nearly finalized by midweek, aimed to restructure TikTok’s American business into a new U.S.-based company controlled by a majority of American investors, with China’s ByteDance retaining a minority stake of less than 20%, one of the sources said. The plan had secured approvals from ByteDance, existing stakeholders, incoming U.S. investors, and the U.S. government, the person added.

But the agreement stalled after China indicated behind the scenes that it would not authorize the transaction in light of the sharp escalation in trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. Neither ByteDance nor the White House responded to requests for comment, and the Chinese Embassy in Washington also did not reply.

The hold-up comes just as President Trump extended the U.S. deadline for ByteDance to divest TikTok’s U.S. assets. On Friday, Trump granted a 75-day extension to a January 2024 law mandating the sale, citing the need to finalize regulatory approvals.

“The deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed,” Trump posted on social media. “We hope to continue working in good faith with China, who I understand is not very happy about our reciprocal tariffs.”

Trump this week raised tariffs on Chinese imports by 34%, bringing the total to 54% on a wide range of goods. China responded Friday with matching tariffs on U.S. products, intensifying an already fraught trade relationship between the world’s two largest economies. Trump has said he is open to lowering tariffs if it helps secure a deal for TikTok, which has more than 170 million users in the United States.

The stalled TikTok deal now sits at the center of a growing geopolitical standoff. The proposed spin-off was seen by many as a diplomatic middle ground—allowing continued U.S. access to the popular short video app while addressing national security concerns about Chinese influence over American user data.

But Beijing’s retaliatory posture casts new doubt over whether any resolution is possible without broader trade concessions. As both sides brace for continued escalation, the fate of TikTok in the U.S.—and the broader tech and trade relationship between Washington and Beijing—remains uncertain.

REUTERS