Angela Merkel recounts being the first and only in new memoir

Actress Natalie Cassidy is set to leave EastEnders after 32 years, with her exit storyline coinciding with the show's 40th anniversary in February. Cassidy, who plays Sonia Fowler, expressed sadness but excitement for new opportunities, thanking executive producer Chris Clenshaw for the chance to be part of the milestone event. Known for her iconic portrayal of Sonia, Cassidy's departure will be a central focus in the anniversary storylines, promising unmissable drama that will impact the...

The European Union warned Pakistan that its duty-free exporter status will depend on progress in addressing civil and labor rights, and freedom of speech, as Olof Skoog concluded a visit to Islamabad to discuss human rights issues and the GSP+ trade scheme. Pakistan's exports to Europe have doubled since 2014, but the EU emphasized the need for tangible reforms, highlighting concerns such as blasphemy laws, women's rights, media independence, and a recent law granting the...

Rwanda-backed rebels are advancing towards Bukavu in the eastern DRC, with plans to continue to the national capital after claiming control of Goma. The rebels, including the M23 group, are allegedly supported by Rwanda and have caused a humanitarian crisis, displacing half a million people. Regional leaders are meeting to address the escalating conflict, which has also strained relations between Rwanda and South Africa. Full Article

The investigation into the midair collision between an Army helicopter and a passenger jet that resulted in dozens of deaths revealed that military helicopter flights forced at least two planes to abort landings at Reagan National Airport prior to the crash. Concerns have been raised about frequent military training flights around the airport, where a helicopter lane intersects with aircraft flight paths. Despite reports of understaffing in the air traffic control tower, sources familiar with...

A 17-year-old Dublin boy, who cannot be named, pleaded guilty to driving a stolen car, endangering lives, and dangerous driving after a dramatic incident on the M50 where he performed handbrake turns, drove the wrong way on slip roads, and sped against traffic. The teen narrowly avoided colliding with a Garda vehicle and caused other motorists to take evasive action. Despite multiple bail breaches, he was not remanded in custody due to a lack of...

Jurors in the racketeering trial of former House Speaker Michael Madigan and his associate deliberated for nine hours without reaching a verdict, focusing on scheduling and office supplies. A midair collision between an Army helicopter and a jetliner in Washington resulted in the deadliest US air disaster in nearly 25 years. Walgreens suspends its quarterly dividend for the first time in 92 years amid financial struggles, while a subcontractor for the Obama Presidential Center sues...