Here are the top global news stories for March 21, 2025:
UK Public Borrowing Surpasses Forecasts:
The UK's public borrowing in February reached £10.7 billion, exceeding
expectations by £4.1 billion, intensifying pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves
ahead of the spring statement.
Heathrow Airport Closure Disrupts Flights:
A fire at Heathrow Airport led to significant flight disruptions, affecting
over 1,300 flights and causing a drop in airline shares, notably IAG and
EasyJet.
World Glacier Day Celebrated: The
inaugural World Glacier Day was marked by events highlighting glacier
conservation, with Argentina's Perito Moreno Glacier attracting tourists
despite concerns over ice decline.
Global Markets React to Geopolitical
Developments: The return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency has led to
shifts in global markets, with investors moving funds from U.S. equities to
European defense stocks and Chinese tech sectors.
European Defense Strategies Under Scrutiny:
Europe remains divided on supporting Ukraine and enhancing its own defense
capabilities, with internal disagreements on funding and military spending
priorities.
U.S. Tariff Concerns Weigh on Markets:
The anticipation of new U.S. tariffs has contributed to a cautious end to the
trading week, overshadowing positive economic data.
Israeli Government Dismisses Shin Bet
Chief: Israel's government approved the dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen
Bar amid significant public protests, citing strained relations with Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Israeli Military Actions in Gaza: Israeli
forces have been ordered to seize more territory in Gaza, with ministers
threatening partial annexation if hostages are not released by Hamas.
Sudanese Army Captures Presidential Palace:
The Sudanese army recaptured the presidential palace in Khartoum, marking a
significant gain against the Rapid Support Forces.
Alleged Assault at Antarctic Research Base:
An alleged assault at a polar research base has raised concerns about
preparedness for isolated assignments, with implications for future missions,
including those to Mars.
Protests in Istanbul Over Mayor's
Detention: Crowds defied a public protest ban in Istanbul following the
detention of Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, leading to heightened tensions in Turkey.
Bali Flights Canceled Due to Volcanic
Eruption: Flights departing from Bali were canceled after a volcanic
eruption sent ash plumes 8 kilometers into the sky, disrupting travel plans.
Serbia Investigates 'Sound Cannon' Claims:
Calls are growing in Serbia for an investigation into allegations that 'sound
cannons' were used to target protesters during recent demonstrations.
Pacific Nations Remember Nuclear Test
Legacy: Pacific countries are commemorating the legacy of nuclear tests as
debates continue over the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.
Trump Signs Order to Dismantle Department
of Education: U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to
dismantle the Department of Education, aiming to return control of education to
individual states.
Kremlin Accuses Europe of Militarization:
The Kremlin accused Europe of transforming into a "war party" due to
increased militarization and plans to bolster defense capabilities.
White House Affirms Support for Israel
Amid Gaza Conflict: The White House stated that President Trump "fully
supports Israel" as it resumes attacks on Gaza, emphasizing the demand for
the release of hostages by Hamas.
Poland Plans Border Mines: Poland
announced intentions to plant up to one million mines along its borders with
Russia and Belarus to enhance national security.
U.S. Approves Arms Sales to Saudi Arabia:
The U.S. State Department approved the sale of advanced precision kill weapon
systems and related equipment to Saudi Arabia, signaling continued defense
cooperation.
Russia-U.S. Talks Scheduled in Riyadh:
A new round of Russia-U.S. talks is set to take place on March 24 in Riyadh,
Saudi Arabia, focusing on bilateral relations and global security issues.