Metascholar News Portal
- Global News , International News , Politics
- May 12, 2025
- 441 views
- 3 minutes Read
U.S. Envoy Signals Continued Tariffs on Canada, But Opens Door to Strengthened Bilateral Relations
Despite ongoing trade tensions and the continued imposition of tariffs on Canadian exports, there is cautious optimism for a more collaborative future between the United States and Canada, according to U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra. While speaking in a televised interview on The West Block with Mercedes Stephenson, Hoekstra acknowledged that the tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump’s administration may not be entirely eliminated under a new trade deal. However, he emphasized that the groundwork is being laid for a stronger and more resilient bilateral relationship. Hoekstra, reflecting on recent diplomatic engagements, pointed to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to the White House as a pivotal moment in redefining the tone of U.S.-Canada relations. He noted that this visit underscored mutual commitments to deepening economic and security collaboration. “People have talked about a restart or a reset, and I kind of shy away from that,” Hoekstra remarked. “Yes, we had a few rough months, but we already have strong economic, national security, and personal ties. There’s a deep foundation here.” The ambassador indicated that while full tariff removal is unlikely, Canada can anticipate adjustments in the rates and scope of tariffs currently in place. He drew a parallel with the recent U.S.-UK trade framework, which maintained a 10 percent baseline tariff on certain goods while facilitating broader American access to British markets. This, Hoekstra explained, is emblematic of the type of trade model the Trump administration may pursue with Canada maintaining some level of protectionism while enabling increased bilateral economic integration. Since assuming office, President Trump has imposed significant tariffs on a variety of Canadian goods, citing national security and public safety concerns. These include a 25 percent tariff on key industrial exports such as steel and aluminum, as well as a 10 percent tariff on energy products. Additionally, Canadian sectors like automotive and softwood lumber have faced escalated duties, with the administration linking the tariffs to issues such as cross-border migration and the inflow of illicit substances like fentanyl. Despite these economic strains, Hoekstra conveyed a sense of mutual ambition between the two leaders. “Watching the prime minister and the president, they both want that same outcome a prosperous, forward-looking relationship,” he said. “There are tough issues to work through, no doubt. But there’s a shared vision of building a framework that supports growth for both countries.” While specific details of the potential trade agreement remain under negotiation, the ambassador’s comments signal a pragmatic, if cautious, approach…
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- International News
- May 12, 2025
- 399 views
- 2 minutes Read
India Reinstates Civilian Flights at 32 Airports After Ceasefire Eases Tensions with Pakistan
New Delhi, May 12, 2025 – In a significant development indicating the easing of hostilities between India and Pakistan, the Government of India has officially reopened 32 airports that were previously shut down due to heightened military tensions along the border. The move comes after both nations reached a ceasefire agreement over the weekend, bringing a sense of relief to millions impacted by the disruption of air travel and regional instability. The Airports Authority of India (AAI), in a public statement released on Monday, confirmed that all 32 airports are now fully operational and open for civil aviation activities with immediate effect. These airports, located primarily in the northern and western regions of the country, were closed as a precautionary measure amid escalating conflict with Pakistan earlier this month. “The 32 airports that were closed for civilian operations during the recent border tensions are now available for regular use,” the statement read. The AAI emphasized that all necessary safety inspections had been conducted to ensure secure resumption of services at these facilities. The reopening of the airports aligns with Pakistan’s decision to fully restore its airspace, which had also been restricted during the peak of the skirmishes. Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority confirmed on Saturday, May 10, that it had reopened all affected air corridors, allowing for a full return to scheduled flight operations. India’s leading private airline, IndiGo, welcomed the development, announcing that it would gradually resume operations on all previously suspended routes. “We are closely coordinating with relevant authorities and airport operators to restart our services in the affected areas,” an IndiGo spokesperson said. “Passenger safety and operational efficiency remain our top priorities.” The coordinated reopening of airspace and airport infrastructure on both sides is being seen as a hopeful sign of de-escalation, with analysts urging both countries to maintain diplomatic channels to avoid future disruptions. The resumption of flights is expected to restore normalcy in regional connectivity, benefiting passengers, airlines, and the broader economy.
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- Africa , Europe , International News
- April 22, 2025
- 594 views
- 3 minutes Read
Pope Francis Passes Away at Age 88: How Will the Next Pope Be Chosen?
Following the Pope’s Passing at 88, Focus Shifts to the Age-Old Question: Who Will Select the Next Leader of the Catholic Church? The election of a new Pope is a profound event, steeped in centuries of tradition, religious solemnity, and, inevitably, subtle undercurrents of global politics. While, in theory, any baptized Catholic man is eligible to ascend to the papacy, the responsibility of selecting the spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics worldwide has, since the 14th century, been exclusively entrusted to the College of Cardinals. However, not every cardinal participates in this momentous decision. Only those under the age of 80 referred to as cardinal electors are permitted to cast their votes. This rule ensures that the process remains dynamic and reflective of contemporary Church perspectives. The election process, formally known as the Papal Conclave, commences typically between 15 to 20 days after the papal seat becomes vacant, whether due to death or resignation. This interlude allows for mourning, global reflection, and logistical preparations for the conclave, which is held in the historic Sistine Chapel within Vatican City. The voting procedure is governed by strict protocols designed to preserve secrecy and spiritual integrity. To elect a new Pope, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority of the votes cast. Each cardinal elector inscribes the name of their chosen candidate on a ballot self-voting is expressly prohibited, reinforcing the principle of humility and collective discernment. Up to four ballots are conducted daily two sessions in the morning and two in the afternoon. The duration of the conclave is unpredictable; it may conclude swiftly or extend over an extended period, depending on the unity or division among the electors. History records that the longest conclave spanned nearly three years, culminating in the election of Pope Gregory X in 1271, a testament to the complexities that can arise when consensus proves elusive. A symbolic ritual accompanies each voting round. After ballots are counted and decisions recorded, they are burned in a specially designed stove. The color of the smoke that emerges from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney serves as a public signal to the world. Black smoke indicates that no decision has been reached, while white smoke proclaims the joyful news that a new Pope has been chosen. Should the cardinals fail to elect a pontiff after four consecutive days of voting, tradition mandates a pause for prayer and reflection, allowing the electors to seek divine guidance before resuming deliberations. This year,…
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Victor Amos
- Global News , International News , News
- March 10, 2025
- 968 views
- 2 minutes Read
“Over 80% of USAID Programs Set to Officially Conclude”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced the termination of the vast majority of the US Agency for International Development’s (USAID) programs following a sweeping six-week review. Rubio stated on X that the eliminated initiatives “spent tens of billions in ways that did not serve or even harmed US interests.” Only 18% of USAID’s programs will remain operational, now to be managed by the State Department. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from humanitarian organizations worldwide, which warn that the move could have devastating consequences, potentially putting lives at risk. The Trump administration has consistently emphasized its “America First” policy, seeking to align overseas spending with national priorities. Shortly after President Trump’s return to the White House on January 20, thousands of USAID employees were placed on leave, and overseas staff were recalled. On his first day in office, Trump signed an executive order freezing foreign aid funding and initiating a review of USAID’s global operations, led by Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge). This review resulted in the cancellation of thousands of development contracts and the dismissal of thousands of employees. Rubio revealed that approximately 5,200 of USAID’s 6,200 programs have been discontinued following the review. “In consultation with Congress, we intend for the remaining 18% of programs to be administered more effectively under the State Department,” he added. Rubio also expressed gratitude to Doge and State Department staff for their efforts in achieving what he called an “overdue and historic reform.” However, the move has sparked legal challenges, with Democrats and humanitarian groups arguing that the shutdown of congressionally funded USAID programs is unlawful. USAID’s global missions ranging from famine relief and polio vaccinations to emergency food assistance in conflict zones have been significantly impacted. The repercussions are already being felt worldwide. In Sudan, the suspension of humanitarian aid has forced the closure of over 1,100 communal kitchens supporting victims of the ongoing civil war, leaving nearly two million people without critical assistance. In Oman, dozens of Afghan women who fled the Taliban to pursue higher education now face an uncertain future after their USAID-funded scholarships were abruptly canceled. Similarly, India’s first medical clinic for transgender individuals ceased operations in three cities after US foreign aid was withdrawn. The decision marks a dramatic shift in US foreign aid policy, raising concerns about the long-term humanitarian and diplomatic consequences of these cuts.
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- America , Global News , International News , News , Politics
- March 1, 2025
- 321 views
- 3 minutes Read
“Zelensky Optimistic About Repairing Ties with Trump Following Heated White House Dispute”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence on Friday that relations with the United States could be repaired following a heated confrontation with President Donald Trump, who accused him of obstructing peace efforts with Russia during a tense Oval Office meeting. “Of course,” Zelensky told Fox News when asked if ties with Trump could be salvaged, emphasizing that U.S.-Ukraine relations transcend “two presidents” and stressing Kyiv’s urgent need for American support against Russia’s superior military. “It will be difficult without your support,” he added during the interview on Trump’s preferred network. The remarks followed an explosive exchange at the White House, where Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelensky in front of U.S. and international media, accusing him of ingratitude and rejecting proposed truce terms. Trump warned Zelensky he was “overplaying his hand” and demanded an immediate end to the war, declaring, “You’re either going to make a deal or we’re out.” The meeting concluded abruptly, with Zelensky departing without signing a critical minerals-sharing pact seen as key to a U.S.-mediated ceasefire. European leaders swiftly reaffirmed support for Ukraine amid fears Trump could pressure Kyiv into conceding territory to Russia. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk assured Zelensky, “You are not alone,” while British PM Keir Starmer pledged “unwavering support” after speaking with both leaders post-clash. Italy’s Giorgia Meloni called for an urgent U.S.-Europe summit on Ukraine, as U.S. Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer accused Trump and Vance of “doing Putin’s dirty work.”Zelensky refused to express regret for the confrontation, telling Fox News, “I’m not sure we did something bad,” though he lamented the public nature of the dispute. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, however, demanded an apology for “wasting our time.” Russia reveled in the discord, with ex-President Dmitry Medvedev branding Zelensky an “insolent pig” who received a “proper slap down.” Trump’s GOP allies echoed Moscow’s criticism, blaming Zelensky for the breakdown.Kyiv rallied behind Zelensky, with Ukraine’s army chief pledging solidarity and Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba praising his “bravery.” Citizens like 26-year-old Valentyn Burianov echoed support, stating, “He did what he must.” The clash underscored Trump’s pivot toward positioning himself as a mediator between Putin and Zelensky, despite refusing to condemn Russia’s invasion. Trump claimed he had privately engaged Putin “on numerous occasions” and urged Zelensky to compromise, insisting, “I cannot criticize one side” as a neutral arbiter. Zelensky, however, rejected concessions to a “killer on our territory,” referencing Putin. As diplomatic tensions flared, Russia intensified its assault, with…
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- America , Europe , Global News , International News , Live Reporting , News , Politics
- February 28, 2025
- 380 views
- 2 minutes Read
Trump-Zelenskyy Meeting Ends Abruptly Amid Heated Exchanges in Oval Office
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to the White House was cut short following a tense confrontation with U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who accused him of displaying “disrespectful” behavior during their discussions in the Oval Office. In a social media post, Trump claimed that Zelenskyy “is not ready for peace if America is involved,” suggesting that the Ukrainian leader believes U.S. involvement gives him a significant advantage in negotiations. Trump further criticized Zelenskyy for allegedly disrespecting the United States in the Oval Office, stating, “He can come back when he is ready for peace.” During their meeting, Trump reportedly warned Zelenskyy that he was “gambling with the lives of millions, with the third world war,” urging him to abandon demands for additional security guarantees. Trump emphasized, “You’re either going to make a deal or we are out,” signaling a potential withdrawal of U.S. support. The U.S. president appeared to draw a false equivalence between Ukraine and Russia, positioning himself as a neutral mediator in the conflict. This stance starkly contrasted with Zelenskyy’s characterization of Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “killer” and “terrorist” who invaded Ukraine, with whom he refused to compromise on territorial integrity. The two leaders repeatedly clashed over their perspectives on Russia, the ongoing negotiations, and the level of European support for Ukraine. Vice President JD Vance also accused Zelenskyy of failing to express gratitude for U.S. assistance, claiming the Ukrainian leader was “campaigning for the opposition in October” instead of showing appreciation for Trump’s efforts to “save your country.” Zelenskyy departed the White House shortly after the heated exchange, and a planned press conference, where the two leaders were expected to sign a deal on minerals, was abruptly canceled. The incident underscores the deepening tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
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- International News
- February 22, 2025
- 122 views
- 5 minutes Read
Hamas to Free Six Captives in Gaza After Bibas Mother’s Remains Are Recovered
Avera Mengistu, who crossed into Gaza nearly ten years ago and has been detained there since, along with Tal Shoham, a hostage captured in Gaza during the deadly October 7, 2023, attack, have been freed as part of a ceasefire and a hostage-prisoner exchange deal between Hamas and Israel in Rafah, located in southern Gaza, on February 22, 2025. Hamas released two hostages and planned to free four more from Gaza on Saturday in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and detainees. This came after Israel confirmed that a body handed over earlier that day belonged to hostage Shiri Bibas. Tal Shoham, 40, and Avera Mengistu, 39, were transferred to the Red Cross in Rafah, southern Gaza, after being escorted onto a stage by armed Hamas militants. The release of four additional hostages was expected to take place soon after in central Gaza. The six hostages set to be freed on Saturday are the final living captives from a group of 33 scheduled for release in the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, which came into effect on January 19. Four of the hostages Shoham, Eliya Cohen, 27, Omer Shem Tov, 22, and Omer Wenkert, 23 were taken by Hamas militants during their assault on Israel on October 7, 2023. Shoham was abducted from Kibbutz Be’eri, along with his wife and two children, who were released during a brief truce in November 2023. The other three were seized from the nearby Nova music festival. Two others, Hisham Al-Sayed, 36, and Mengistu, have been detained by Hamas since they voluntarily entered Gaza about a decade ago. Hundreds of Israelis gathered in the rain at what is now known as Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, cheering as they watched the release unfold on a large screen. Further south, crowds lined the roads near the Gaza border, waiting to welcome the convoy transporting the freed captives. The Hamas-led releases have involved public ceremonies where captives are taken on stage, with some required to speak. These events have drawn growing criticism, including from the United Nations, which condemned the “parading of hostages.” Hamas dismissed the criticism on Saturday, framing the ceremonies as a solemn display of Palestinian unity. In exchange for the hostages, Israel is expected to release 602 Palestinian prisoners and detainees from its custody as part of the latest phase of the ceasefire agreement. Among them are 445 Gazans arrested by Israeli forces during the war, along with numerous convicts serving…
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- International News , News
- February 21, 2025
- 140 views
- 4 minutes Read
Trump Reignites Russia Ties in Ukraine Peace Talks, Advancing Putin’s Agenda
High-level discussions between senior delegations from the United States and Russia in Saudi Arabia may mark a pivotal moment in the effort to end the protracted war in Ukraine. During nearly five hours of negotiations, representatives from both countries reportedly not only explored pathways to a potential peace settlement but also discussed prospective economic and investment opportunities that could arise from such an agreement. While hopes for peace may be cautiously rising, the potential ramifications for Ukraine are less promising. Observers suggest that Ukraine could emerge as the primary loser in this diplomatic maneuvering, while Russian President Vladimir Putin stands to gain significantly. For over two decades, Putin has worked tirelessly to restore Russia’s influence on the global stage, seeking to reclaim the superpower status once held by the Soviet Union. His 2005 declaration that the Soviet Union’s collapse was “the greatest geopolitical catastrophe” of the 20th century has guided his foreign policy ever since. Now, with U.S. President Donald Trump’s outreach, Putin appears closer than ever to achieving his strategic objectives. Trump’s willingness to engage with Putin on Ukraine effectively elevates Russia’s status, granting Moscow the recognition and respect that Putin has long craved. The symbolism of Washington treating Moscow as an equal partner on such a critical issue is a clear diplomatic win for the Kremlin. The diplomatic developments also suggest growing fractures within the Western alliance. The coalition that has maintained pressure on Russia since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago now appears to be showing signs of strain. With Trump at the helm, the U.S. stance on Ukraine is increasingly diverging from that of the European Union and the United Kingdom. A key indicator of this shift came last week when U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the prospect of Ukraine regaining its pre-2014 borders as “unrealistic.” This statement signals a softening of Washington’s position on Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014 a move widely regarded as the beginning of Russia’s war on Ukraine. The renewed dialogue between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio further cements Russia’s re-entry onto the global stage. Meanwhile, Putin has not conceded any occupied Ukrainian territory to secure this diplomatic engagement. His steadfast approach has reinforced his image as a leader unwilling to yield to Western pressure a stance that now appears to be bearing fruit. The anticipated meeting between Trump and Putin marks a stark reversal from the isolation Moscow experienced…
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Senior Aide to Mexico City Mayor Gunned Down in Public Daylight Shooting
- May 21, 2025
- 1757 views
Passengers to Enjoy 15% Reduction in Transport Fares from May 24
- May 20, 2025
- 2299 views
“Three Dead After Heavy Rains Hit Adenta on Sunday”
- May 19, 2025
- 3973 views
Deals worth $300bn signed with U.S, says Saudi crown Prince
- May 15, 2025
- 622 views
“Foreign Nationals Arrested by National Security for Illegal Gold Trading”
- May 14, 2025
- 534 views
