ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – An Ethiopian humanitarian worker who was abducted in the volatile Amhara region has been killed, according to aid organizations and a statement from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on Wednesday.
The worker, Yared Melese, had been kidnapped for ransom and later murdered by an unidentified armed group in the Dawunt Woreda of the North Wollo Zone, Amhara.
In an official statement, OCHA revealed that Melese, who was working as a nutrition officer for the Action for Social Development and Environmental Protection Organization, was taken hostage on July 22. His death was confirmed on August 9.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the kidnapping for ransom and subsequent killing of our colleague, Mr. Yared Melese, by criminals, whilst he was serving in the line of duty,” said Ramiz Alakbarov, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator in Ethiopia, in an emailed message to VOA’s Horn of Africa Service. “Yared was a brave and dedicated humanitarian worker who was ready to assist civilians in need under extremely challenging circumstances. Any attack, threat, looting, or extortion demands are unacceptable breaches of our Code of Conduct.”
Melese’s death highlights the growing dangers faced by humanitarian workers in Ethiopia’s increasingly unstable regions, particularly as armed groups clash with government forces.
The surge in violence has led to a troubling increase in kidnappings and attacks targeting aid workers, who are often on the frontlines delivering assistance to vulnerable communities in conflict-affected areas.
OCHA reported that Melese’s death marked the eighth killing of a humanitarian worker in Ethiopia so far in 2024, with six of those deaths occurring in the Amhara region alone. Additionally, OCHA stated that 14 other aid workers have been kidnapped across Ethiopia this year.
The local Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations Council expressed grave concerns over the escalation in targeted attacks against aid workers, particularly in the Amhara, Oromia, and other regions where conflict has intensified. “We have received multiple reports of a surge in attacks targeting humanitarian workers in the Amhara, Oromia, and other regions,” the council said in a statement on Wednesday.
The growing unrest in the Amhara region is rooted in clashes between federal government forces and the Amhara Fano armed group, a conflict that has been fueled by the government’s efforts to disarm regional paramilitary forces and integrate them into the federal security apparatus. The resulting violence has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in the region, where aid organizations are struggling to deliver vital services amid the constant threat of attack.
Tensions have been high in Amhara for over a year, following the government’s decision to disarm regional paramilitaries. The move was met with strong resistance from armed factions like the Fano militia, leading to widespread violence and the disruption of humanitarian operations in affected areas.
While there has been no official reaction from Ethiopia’s federal government or authorities in the Amhara region regarding Melese’s killing, the international aid community continues to call for increased protection for humanitarian workers who risk their lives to provide essential services to those in need.
MOSCOW, Russia – A Moscow court has sentenced U.S. citizen Joseph Tater to 15 days in jail following his arrest on Monday for petty hooliganism. The Russian Investigative Committee revealed that Tater was detained after allegedly assaulting a police officer and refusing to provide identification during a routine check.
“The suspect refused to provide his identity documents and then used violence against a law enforcement officer,” the committee stated in an official release.
The arrest has sparked renewed concerns about the treatment and status of Western nationals detained in Russia, a situation that has become a point of diplomatic contention between Moscow and Western governments.
Tater’s detention comes shortly after a high-profile prisoner exchange earlier this month between Russia and Western countries, which saw the release of American journalists Evan Gershkovich and Alsu Kurmasheva, along with former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan.
Despite the recent prisoner exchanges, multiple Western nationals remain incarcerated in Russia on various charges, raising concerns about the legal and diplomatic processes involved.
The U.S. State Department confirmed it is closely monitoring the situation. “We’re aware of these reports of another American citizen being arrested in Russia, and we’re working to get as much information as we can, including determining consular access,” State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said on Wednesday. “I don’t have specifics due to privacy concerns, but we are working to obtain as much information as possible.”
As diplomatic tensions between Russia and the West remain high, Tater’s arrest adds to the growing number of Western nationals entangled in legal cases in Russia, many of which have been met with significant international scrutiny.
BANGKOK, Thailand – In a landmark ruling, Thailand’s Constitutional Court has removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office following an ethical violation. The court’s decision, announced on Wednesday, has further shaken Thailand’s political landscape, which was already facing uncertainty after the dissolution of the country’s main opposition party just a week prior.
The case centers on Srettha’s controversial appointment of a Cabinet member who had previously been jailed on charges related to an alleged attempt to bribe a government official. The Constitutional Court ruled 5-4 against Srettha, finding that his decision to appoint the individual violated ethical standards. As a result, Srettha was immediately removed from his position as prime minister.
The court’s decision leaves Thailand without a clear leadership at a critical time. The Cabinet will remain in place on a caretaker basis until Parliament approves a new prime minister. A vote in Parliament was scheduled for Friday, but the process of electing a new leader has no set deadline. In an even more uncertain scenario, the caretaker Cabinet could choose to dissolve Parliament entirely, prompting a new election.
Speaking shortly after the ruling, Srettha expressed his disappointment but noted that he respects the court’s decision. “I’m sorry that I’d be considered as a prime minister who’s unethical, but I’d like to insist that I believe that is not who I am,” Srettha said in a brief statement, emphasizing his commitment to upholding ethical standards during his short tenure in office, which lasted less than a year.
Phumtham Wechayachai, a senior figure within Srettha’s Pheu Thai Party and first deputy prime minister, is expected to take over as acting prime minister while Parliament deliberates on a more permanent replacement.
This political upheaval follows another dramatic event last week when the Constitutional Court dissolved the progressive Move Forward Party (MFP). The court ruled that MFP had violated Thailand’s constitution by attempting to amend a law prohibiting defamation of the country’s royal family. The disbanded party has since regrouped under the name The People’s Party.
As Thailand grapples with these rapid political developments, the country’s future remains unclear. The sudden removal of Srettha Thavisin has only heightened political tensions, and with no clear timetable for the appointment of a new leader, Thailand’s political landscape is likely to remain turbulent in the coming months.
Phumtham Wechayachai’s expected rise to the role of acting prime minister signals continuity within the Pheu Thai Party’s leadership, though the long-term direction of the government is uncertain. The Constitutional Court’s decision could also have broader implications for the balance of power between Thailand’s military-backed parties and pro-democracy movements, which have been in a power struggle for years.
MANCHESTER, UK – Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has signed a new three-year contract with the club, extending his stay at Old Trafford until the summer of 2027. The deal also includes an option for an additional 12 months, keeping the Portuguese international in Manchester well into his thirties.
This new contract ends any speculation about Fernandes’ future, which had been the subject of rumors following the conclusion of last season. Having already made 234 appearances since joining the club in 2020, Fernandes has become an integral part of United’s squad and leadership.
“Everybody knows the passion I have for Manchester United. I understand the responsibility and significance of wearing this shirt and the levels of dedication and desire required to represent this incredible club,” Fernandes said in an interview with ManUtd.com.
The 29-year-old midfielder has delivered numerous memorable moments for the Red Devils, including a hat-trick against Leeds, leading the team out at Old Trafford on European nights, and lifting trophies at Wembley. Reflecting on his time at United, Fernandes added, “I wouldn’t have signed this contract if I didn’t believe that my best moments in a United shirt are still to come.”
Fernandes also emphasized his confidence in Manchester United’s future, expressing optimism about the club’s direction under the current leadership and managerial team. “From my discussions with the football leadership and manager, it is clear how determined everyone is to fight for major trophies in the years ahead. I can see how positive the future is going to be, and I am thrilled about leading this team forward.”
The extension signals Fernandes’ continued commitment to Manchester United’s success as the club strives to compete for titles both domestically and on the European stage.
WARSAW, Poland – Kylian Mbappé made a dazzling debut for Real Madrid, scoring the second goal in a 2-0 victory over Atalanta that secured Madrid their record-breaking sixth UEFA Super Cup title on Wednesday night.
The match, held at Warsaw’s Stadion Wojska Polskiego, saw Uruguayan midfielder Federico Valverde open the scoring for the reigning European champions after 59 minutes. Valverde capitalized on a close-range opportunity, slotting the ball into the net to put Madrid ahead.
Just nine minutes later, Mbappé doubled the lead with a sensational strike. Latching onto a precise pass from English star Jude Bellingham, the 25-year-old French forward fired the ball into the top corner, sealing the victory for Madrid.
Mbappé, who signed a five-year contract with Real Madrid last month after completing a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, took a little time to adjust to the rhythm of his new Galactico teammates Bellingham and Vinicius Junior. However, his impact in the second half was undeniable, as he announced his arrival with a powerful debut goal.
Having joined Real Madrid’s preseason training only last week, following his participation in Euro 2024 with the French national team, Mbappé was swiftly integrated into the squad for the Super Cup final. The match featured a showdown between the reigning Champions League winners, Real Madrid, and Europa League champions, Atalanta.
With this triumph, Real Madrid clinched a record sixth UEFA Super Cup, surpassing Barcelona and AC Milan, both of whom have lifted the trophy five times. The victory further cemented Madrid’s dominance in European football and highlighted their ability to maintain success with their latest star signing, Mbappé.
LONDON, UK – The Premier League aims to reduce frustration surrounding the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system by launching a dedicated social media account that will deliver real-time updates and explanations on officiating and operational decisions for each match.
This move follows strong support for keeping VAR in use despite the extensive criticism of the technology-aided officiating system last season, including a petition initiated by Wolverhampton Wanderers to scrap it. The Premier League believes this social media initiative will bridge the communication gap and bring greater transparency to the process.
“In the absence of live VAR audio being broadcast, as it is not permitted in football, the Premier League Match Centre will be able to relay real-time updates on social media directly from the VAR Hub during a game,” the league announced in a statement on Tuesday.
This new X (formerly Twitter) account, @PLMatchCentre, will provide detailed insights directly from the VAR hub, with officials explaining the decisions being made on the field. Additionally, the Premier League’s officiating body, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), will use the account to clarify laws of the game and share updates on any decisions that require further explanation or analysis.
By offering real-time updates, the Premier League hopes to provide fans with a clearer understanding of how and why specific decisions are made during matches. “We want to bring more transparency to the officiating process and give our audience timely information that enhances their experience,” the statement added.
As the Premier League continues to develop its use of technology in the game, this initiative is seen as a step toward improving the communication between officials and fans, ensuring that decisions are made clearer and frustrations around VAR are minimized.
Real Madrid has strengthened their position in the UEFA Super Cup match against Atalanta, extending their lead to 2-0 at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The second goal came in the 68th minute, courtesy of Kylian Mbappe, marking a dream debut for the French superstar.
The scoring opened in the 59th minute when Federico Valverde found the net, capitalizing on excellent teamwork between Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. Bellingham’s precise pass to Vinicius Jr. set up the Brazilian winger to assist Valverde for a simple tap-in.
Mbappe’s goal nine minutes later has put Real Madrid in a commanding position. The former PSG striker, making his much-anticipated debut for the Spanish giants, showcased why he was one of the most sought-after players in world football.
Following the second goal, Jude Bellingham nearly added a third, but his shot was saved by Atalanta goalkeeper Juan Musso, highlighting Real Madrid’s continued pressure on the Italian side.
Earlier in the match, both teams had their chances. Mbappe himself came close to scoring before his eventual goal, while Bellingham demonstrated his defensive capabilities by blocking a shot from Atalanta’s Marten de Roon.
Atalanta made tactical changes, introducing English defender Ben Godfrey and Italian forward Mateo Retegui for their debuts, but these substitutions have yet to turn the tide in their favor.
As the match enters its final stages, Real Madrid looks set to secure the UEFA Super Cup title. The Spanish side’s dominant performance, featuring goals from Valverde and debutant Mbappe, has put them in a strong position to lift the trophy.
Atalanta now faces a significant challenge to get back into the game, needing to score at least twice to force extra time. With time running out, the Italian side will need to push forward, potentially leaving themselves vulnerable to Real Madrid’s potent counter-attacks.
The closing minutes promise to be intense as Real Madrid aims to maintain their clean sheet, while Atalanta desperately searches for a way back into the match.
It’s that time of the year again—the annual act of speculation where I attempt to predict the outcome of the 2024-25 Premier League season for all 20 clubs.
Tipping Manchester City to win last season’s title hardly required any boldness, although predicting Aston Villa to finish fifth—who eventually finished fourth and secured a spot in the Champions League—at least earned some kudos.
Of course, these predictions come with the usual caveats: transfer activity could significantly alter this landscape, but as things stand, here is how I believe the season will unfold.
1. Manchester City
Last season: Champions
Think about betting against them. Then think again.
Manchester City’s relentless pursuit of success under manager Pep Guardiola brought them a sixth Premier League title in seven seasons last term, including a record fourth consecutive win, despite Arsenal’s consistency and excellence.
All the same world-class talent remains, led by the generational goal machine that is Erling Haaland. City will also have the financial power to add to their squad, armed with the vast resources following the £81.5m departure of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid.
Young stars Oscar Bobb and James McAtee have shown they are ready to step up to new levels this season, strengthening Guardiola’s already formidable team even further. It’s a daunting prospect for their rivals.
There will be a season when Manchester City does not win the Premier League—I’m just not sure this will be it.
“City will finish, once again, top. Understanding of philosophy, experience, and Pep Guardiola’s relentless hunger for more will be the difference, despite concern over a lack of new signings. Given our recent history too, you could comfortably regard this as a safe bet.”
2. Arsenal
Last season: 2nd
Arsenal pushed City all the way last season but ultimately fell short. Mikel Arteta’s side has been on a steady upward trajectory, and there is little reason to believe they won’t be City’s closest challengers again.
The squad depth has been improved with some smart additions, and the Gunners will be hoping that key players remain fit to avoid the stumbles that cost them last season.
If Gabriel Jesus can avoid injury and Kai Havertz can find his best form, Arsenal might just have enough to make the title race even closer this time around.
3. Liverpool
Last season: 4th
After a turbulent 2023-24 season where they barely scraped into the top four, Liverpool looks set to bounce back stronger. Jurgen Klopp has addressed the issues in midfield with the signings of proven players, and the attack remains as potent as ever.
The Reds will be eager to reclaim their place at the top, and with the Anfield crowd behind them, they could very well push City and Arsenal all the way.
4. Manchester United
Last season: 3rd
Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United made significant strides last season, finishing third and securing Champions League football. With a few key signings and further tactical refinement, United should maintain their place in the top four.
However, breaking into the top three will be tough unless they can find the consistency and cutting edge that often eluded them last season.
5. Aston Villa
Last season: 4th
Unai Emery’s Aston Villa exceeded all expectations last season, finishing fourth and earning a Champions League spot. Replicating that success will be challenging, but with the squad they have and Emery’s tactical acumen, Villa should still be in the mix for European places.
They may not break into the top four again, but another strong season is certainly on the cards.
6. Chelsea
Last season: 6th
Mauricio Pochettino’s first season at Chelsea was one of steady progress, though not quite at the pace many fans had hoped. The Blues finished sixth and will look to build on that this season.
With the addition of a few key players and Pochettino’s philosophy taking deeper root, Chelsea will aim to challenge for a top-four spot. But with the competition so fierce, another season just outside the Champions League places seems likely.
7. Newcastle United
Last season: 5th
Newcastle’s return to the upper echelons of English football has been impressive, and Eddie Howe’s side shows no signs of slowing down. However, balancing the demands of European football with a domestic campaign could take its toll.
Expect Newcastle to remain competitive, but they may just miss out on a top-six finish this time around.
8. Tottenham Hotspur
Last season: 8th
Spurs endured another frustrating season last year, finishing eighth and missing out on European football. Ange Postecoglou has been tasked with revitalizing the squad, but it won’t be an easy job.
While Tottenham should improve under new management, breaking into the top six might be beyond them this season. A Europa League spot could be within reach, though.
9. Brighton & Hove Albion
Last season: 7th
Brighton continued to punch above their weight last season, finishing in the top seven and securing European football. However, with the added demands of the Europa League, maintaining that level of performance will be challenging.
A solid mid-table finish, with perhaps a cup run thrown in, seems like a realistic target for the Seagulls this time around.
10. West Ham United
Last season: 14th
David Moyes guided West Ham to European glory last season by winning the Europa Conference League, but their domestic form suffered as a result, with the Hammers finishing 14th.
This season, with the distractions of Europe potentially behind them, West Ham should climb back into the top half of the table.
11. Brentford
Last season: 9th
Brentford continued their impressive run in the Premier League, finishing ninth last season. Thomas Frank’s side has shown they belong in the top flight, and they’ll be aiming to consolidate their position this season.
A solid mid-table finish looks likely, with the Bees remaining a tough opponent for any side.
12. Crystal Palace
Last season: 11th
Roy Hodgson’s return to Crystal Palace steadied the ship last season, guiding them to an 11th-place finish. The Eagles will be looking to build on that under his experienced management.
Palace should comfortably avoid relegation and could challenge for a top-half finish if everything clicks.
13. Fulham
Last season: 10th
Fulham exceeded expectations last season by finishing in the top half. Marco Silva’s side played some excellent football, but maintaining that level of performance will be tough.
Expect Fulham to drop slightly down the table this season, though they should avoid any relegation worries.
14. Wolverhampton Wanderers
Last season: 13th
Wolves endured a difficult campaign last season but ultimately survived comfortably. Julen Lopetegui will be hoping to steer the team to safety once again, though a top-half finish looks unlikely.
Wolves should have enough quality to stay clear of the drop zone, but it could be another season of consolidation.
15. Bournemouth
Last season: 15th
Bournemouth surprised many by avoiding relegation last season, finishing 15th. The Cherries will be aiming to stay up again, but it won’t be easy.
With a couple of smart additions, Bournemouth should have enough to survive, though it’s likely to be another tough campaign.
16. Burnley
Last season: Promoted (1st in Championship)
Vincent Kompany’s Burnley stormed to the Championship title last season, playing an exciting brand of football. However, the Premier League is a different beast, and survival will be their main aim.
Burnley should have enough about them to avoid an immediate return to the Championship, but it could be close.
17. Nottingham Forest
Last season: 16th
Nottingham Forest narrowly avoided relegation last season, finishing 16th. Steve Cooper’s side showed spirit, but they’ll need to improve to stay up again.
Expect another tough season for Forest, with survival likely to go down to the wire once more.
18. Everton
Last season: 17th
Everton barely escaped relegation last season, and with financial issues hampering their ability to strengthen the squad, they could be in for another struggle.
If the Toffees don’t improve, they could find themselves slipping into the Championship after years of flirting with the drop.
19. Sheffield United
Last season: Promoted (2nd in Championship)
Sheffield United made a triumphant return to the Premier League by finishing second in the Championship. However, staying up will be a huge challenge for Paul Heckingbottom’s side.
With limited resources and a squad that might struggle at this level, the Blades could face a swift return to the second tier.
20. Luton Town
Last season: Promoted (via Playoffs)
Luton Town’s fairy-tale promotion via the playoffs was one of last season’s great stories. However, the Premier League will be an enormous step up for the Hatters.
With a small budget and squad depth a concern, Luton may find life in the top flight too tough to handle, making them favorites for relegation.
KYIV, Ukraine – Ukrainian forces have reportedly advanced further into Russia’s southern Kursk region, just a week after launching a bold cross-border incursion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Wednesday that his troops have already captured dozens of Russian soldiers and destroyed a Russian fighter jet as part of the operation, which has shocked international observers and intensified the ongoing conflict.
In a video call with Ukrainian military chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, Zelenskyy detailed the progress made by his forces, stating that they had advanced 1 to 2 kilometers in various areas within the Kursk region since the beginning of the day.
“We are advancing in the Kursk region, 1 to 2 kilometers in various areas since the beginning of the day,” Zelenskyy said, emphasizing that Kyiv’s forces now control over 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles) of Russian territory as a result of their surprise assault.
Zelenskyy also confirmed that 100 Russian servicemen had been captured during the operation. “This will accelerate the return of our guys and girls,” he added, indicating that the capture of these soldiers could potentially be used as leverage in negotiations for Ukrainian prisoners of war.
Earlier, video footage obtained by AFP at the Ukrainian border crossing between the Sumy region and Russia’s Kursk region showed a Ukrainian truck carrying blindfolded men in Russian military uniforms traveling away from the Russian border.
The footage has yet to be independently verified, and CNN has reached out to the Ukrainian military for comment.
A Ukrainian official explained that the operation in Kursk is aimed at creating a “security zone” on Russian soil. Iryna Vereshchuk, Ukraine’s minister for the reintegration of temporarily occupied territories, stated that the operation is designed to protect the border regions of Ukraine, particularly the Sumy region, which has been a target of persistent Russian shelling and missile strikes.
Russia has reportedly pulled reserves from key battleground areas in Ukraine, including the occupied regions of Zaporizhzhia, Crimea, and Kharkiv, to reinforce its defenses in Kursk.
A Ukrainian military source told CNN that this redeployment suggests the Kremlin is struggling to maintain its positions amid the Ukrainian advance.
“This operation marks a major embarrassment for the Kremlin,” military analyst Andriy Kholod commented, noting that Russia’s inability to repel Ukrainian forces from its own territory could have significant implications for the conflict’s future trajectory.
Commander Dmytro Kholod, leading Ukraine’s “Nightingale” battalion, told CNN that Ukrainian forces had received intelligence indicating that Russian soldiers were being pulled from various fronts to counter the incursion.
Kholod added that his battalion had been involved in the capture of Russian troops and the destruction of Russian military assets during the operation.
The Ukrainian advance into Russian territory represents a significant escalation in the conflict, challenging Moscow’s military capabilities and raising questions about the Kremlin’s response.
As Kyiv’s forces continue to push forward, the situation remains fluid, with the potential for further developments that could reshape the dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine war.
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – Palestinian health officials reported that Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip overnight and into Wednesday have claimed the lives of at least 17 people, including five children and their parents. The strikes occurred as new cease-fire talks are set to begin, marking 10 months of relentless conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The United States, Qatar, and Egypt are expected to mediate the upcoming discussions aimed at brokering a cease-fire. However, sources indicate that the negotiating parties remain far apart on several key issues despite months of indirect negotiations.
A top Hamas official, speaking to The Associated Press, expressed growing frustration, stating that the group is losing faith in the U.S. as a mediator. It remains unclear whether Hamas will attend the talks scheduled to begin Thursday.
The overall Palestinian death toll in the conflict has approached 40,000, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, underscoring the devastating impact of the ongoing war.
One of the most recent strikes targeted a family home late Tuesday in the densely populated Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, a camp dating back to the 1948 war that led to the creation of Israel. The strike killed five children, aged 2 to 11, along with their parents.
The bodies were taken to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where an Associated Press reporter witnessed the harrowing aftermath, describing the victims as dismembered by the blast, with the 2-year-old child reportedly decapitated.
In another tragic incident, a strike on a home early Wednesday in the nearby Maghazi refugee camp claimed the lives of four more people. The Health Ministry’s emergency service in Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, reported that first responders found the bodies of four individuals killed in a strike on a residential tower late Tuesday.
Additionally, two more people were killed in a strike on a house in the northern town of Beit Lahiya, according to hospital sources.
Israeli military officials have not commented on these specific strikes but have maintained that they do not intentionally target civilians. The Israeli government frequently accuses Hamas of using residential areas for military purposes, which they argue makes it challenging to avoid civilian casualties.
However, officials in Israel rarely provide detailed accounts of individual strikes, leaving much of the devastation unaddressed in public statements.
As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with the death toll rising and cease-fire prospects uncertain, the humanitarian crisis deepens. The international community watches closely, hoping that the upcoming talks might bring some respite to the war-torn region.
