Diplomacy & Trade — Summits & Sanctions

Former UBA Chairman Israel Ogbue Dies at 99

Israel C. Ogbue, former chairman of United Bank for Africa, has died at age 99. The bank announced his passing on Thursday.

Navy Relieves USS Mason Captain During Pre-Deployment Exercise

The U.S. Navy removed Capt. Chavius G. Lewis as commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason during a pre-deployment exercise off Florida. Rear Adm. Alexis T. Walker, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10, ordered the change and reassigned Lewis temporarily to Commander, Naval Surface Group Southeast.

Traikov Takes Over as Bulgaria’s Caretaker Energy Minister

Traicho Traikov assumed duties as Bulgaria's caretaker Energy Minister on Thursday, pledging to safeguard national interests through a stable, competitive and sustainable energy sector. He succeeds Zhecho Stankov after a handover ceremony at the Energy Ministry in Sofia.

Accelleran, Firecell Merge for EU-Sovereign Private 5G Networks

Belgian firm Accelleran and French vendor Firecell announced a merger Tuesday to create a pan-European leader in private 5G networks for industrial plants and enterprises. The deal, backed by a €7.9 million investment, aims to deliver fully EU-sovereign solutions.

Next’s €21 Pink Tulip Vase Sells Fast for Mother’s Day

Shoppers at Next are rushing to buy a €21 Pink 3D Tulip Ceramic Vase as a Mother's Day gift. The spring-inspired piece has drawn rave reviews for its elegant design and compact size.

Kaouther Ben Hania Rejects Berlin Film Award Over Israeli General Honor

Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania refused the 'Most Valuable Film' award for her documentary The Voice of Hind Rajab at a Berlin gala on Monday. She walked away from the trophy after organizers also recognized an Israeli general at the event.

UK Police Arrest Prince Andrew Over Epstein Ties and Leaks

British police arrested Prince Andrew on Thursday over alleged misconduct during his public office tenure, as investigations into his links with Jeffrey Epstein intensify. The detention at his Sandringham estate came amid fresh claims he leaked confidential documents to the late financier.

Shell suits top Brits’ list of fashion regrets in new poll

Shell suits lead the list of fashion choices that make British adults cringe, according to a poll of 2,000 people. Low-rise jeans, peplum tops and cargo trousers follow close behind.

EBRD Eyes Funding for Fortis’ 270 MW Solar-BESS Plant in Serbia

Fortis Renewable Energy has signed a mandate letter with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development for potential financing of a 270 MW solar power plant paired with a 72 MWh battery storage system near Sremska Mitrovica, Serbia. The project, set to become the region's largest photovoltaic facility, targets construction start in the third quarter of this year.

China Targets Auto Digitalization, CSP Expansion by 2030

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology issued a plan December 30, 2025, to boost automotive digitalization, aiming to lift vehicle makers' smart manufacturing by one level and cut R&D cycles 20% by 2027. Separately, energy regulators set a 15-gigawatt target for concentrated solar power capacity with costs matching coal by 2030.

SNB Details ELF Liquidity Plan to Shield Swiss Banks from Crises

The Swiss National Bank unveiled detailed rules Thursday for its extended liquidity facility, a standardized tool set to launch in 2027 that lets banks tap emergency funds against collateral. Officials say the measure will fortify Switzerland's financial system against shocks like the 2023 Credit Suisse collapse.

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