Category: World

US President Donald Trump has increased tariffs on Chinese products to 125%, up from 104%. He announced this on social media, explaining that he is pausing extra tariffs on other countries because they are willing to talk instead of fighting back. Trump criticized China for a “lack of respect.”

In response, China has placed tariffs of 84% on US goods. Since he took office in January, Trump has raised tariffs on China five times.

China has made it clear it won’t back down in this trade war, promising to fight hard. They have also filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO), accusing Trump of being a bully.

What might China do next? They could limit exports of rare earth minerals used in computers and electric car batteries, as they control a lot of the world’s supply. China might increase tariffs on US agricultural products and high-profile companies like Apple and Tesla, but they want to keep attracting investments.

Beijing could even ban American movies or products to retaliate. A recent editorial in China’s People’s Daily newspaper suggested turning this pressure into a chance to grow their own economy, focusing more on local sales.

A young man from Maryland died while he was on vacation in the Bahamas with his family. Dinari McAlmont, 23, was found dead at a private beach resort just hours after arriving on the island. His mother, Michelle McAlmont, believes he was “beaten to death.”

Dinari was from Bowie, Maryland, and traveled to the Bahamas with his parents on April 4. They were staying at the Atlantis Paradise Island resort. Dinari was last seen having dinner with his family. He went out to get a jacket and explore the resort just before 9 pm, according to reports.

Officials at the resort claimed that Dinari spat on some staff members in a restaurant. After they couldn’t find him, Michelle filed a missing person report since Dinari’s phone wasn’t working. She disagreed with the resort’s story about Dinari.

Search teams found Dinari’s body on the beach on Paradise Island around 5:30 am on April 5. The police are investigating what happened. Michelle saw a photo of her son and said, “He was beaten; he was traumatized.” She described his face as damaged with foam on his teeth and sand in his hair. She believes he was attacked and is asking for justice for her son.

Dinari’s parents are now looking for a lawyer who specializes in international cases. “I expect a complete investigation,” Michelle said. The resort expressed sadness over the event and said they are cooperating with the police investigation.

The US Department of State had warned travelers about safety risks in the Bahamas as more crimes against tourists have been reported recently.

Have you heard about a possible $3,200 direct deposit for Social Security recipients in April 2025? You’re not the only one! Many people who rely on Social Security, SSI, SSDI, or Veterans Affairs benefits are hoping this money will land in their bank accounts soon.

But here’s the important truth: The Social Security Administration (SSA) has not confirmed this payment yet. The rumor is spreading fast on social media and in some news stories, but until we hear from the SSA, we shouldn’t rely on it.

Currently, the SSA is still sending out regular monthly payments to people based on their qualifications. This includes retirees, disabled individuals, and veterans who qualify for programs like SSI and SSDI. Even if you wait until age 70 to start your Social Security, you might get back $3,200 or more, although most people will receive a smaller amount. The 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025 is a helpful increase to deal with rising living costs.

So who might qualify for the rumored $3,200 deposit? Reports say the eligibility criteria could include being a U.S. citizen, at least 65 years old, a low-income earner, and having work history with SSA contributions (especially for younger people).

To check if you qualify for any payments, the best way is to visit the official SSA website: www.ssa.gov.

Here’s the typical payment schedule for April 2025:
– April 1, 2025 (Tuesday): SSI recipients who started getting payments in 1997 or earlier
– April 3, 2025 (Thursday): SSDI recipients who started before 1997
– April 9, 2025 (2nd Wednesday): Birthdays between 1st–10th
– April 16, 2025 (3rd Wednesday): Birthdays between 11th–20th
– April 23, 2025 (4th Wednesday): Birthdays between 21st–31st

Quick Fact Check: It’s currently unclear if the $3,200 payment will actually happen because the SSA hasn’t verified this information. Always be cautious about misinformation and check the official SSA website to find the truth.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of involving China in the Ukraine war, calling it “the second biggest mistake” made by President Vladimir Putin. Zelensky stated, “This is the second mistake for Russia. The first was North Korea,” referring to how Russia brings other countries into conflict.

Zelensky also claimed that he has proof that Russian forces are recruiting Chinese citizens to fight. He mentioned having details on more than 150 Chinese nationals deployed at the front lines. Recently, Ukraine’s army captured two Chinese soldiers in the eastern Donetsk region.

To support his claims, Zelensky shared a video showing one of the captured Chinese soldiers in military clothes, making combat sounds, and speaking a few words in Mandarin. Ukrainian officials found Chinese ID cards and contracts for military service with them.

China quickly rejected Zelensky’s claims, saying they do not have many citizens involved in the war. A spokesman for China’s foreign ministry warned Chinese nationals to stay away from conflict zones, calling Zelensky’s accusations “absolutely groundless.” He reminded everyone that the Chinese government advises its citizens to avoid any involvement in armed conflicts.

Zelensky also accused North Korea of sending over 10,000 soldiers to help Russia last year after Ukraine launched an attack on the western Kursk region.

Trader Joe’s is bringing back its cute Easter mini tote bags this week, just in time for spring. These cheerful bags come in four lovely pastel colors: baby pink, lavender, mint green, and pale yellow. Every year, these bags are a hit, and this year’s new colors are sure to sell out quickly!

Why are these bags so popular? They are not only colorful but also super helpful. Made from strong and lightweight canvas, these totes can hold groceries, Easter goodies, or anything you need for your daily activities. Their small size makes them perfect for quick trips or even as adorable gifts!

The bags also feature fun spring designs, like flowers and bunnies, making them perfect for Easter celebrations. Many fans love collecting them, and they often share their excitement and photos online, creating a fun community around these bags.

Trader Joe’s is known for its unique seasonal items, and these Easter totes are just one example. So, if you want to grab one, make sure to visit your local Trader Joe’s soon—these bags sell out fast! Enjoy this cheerful touch for your spring outings, celebrations, or even just to brighten your day.

The conflict over Iran’s nuclear program is getting worse. An expert on national security warned that if Iran doesn’t talk directly with the United States, it could face serious bombing attacks and a long war. This warning comes after US President Donald Trump said Iran would be in “great danger” if it blocked negotiations. According to Trump, a meeting between American and Iranian officials was scheduled for Saturday in Oman, but Iran stated that any talks would happen through a third party.

Trump said, “We’re having talks with Iran, and they’ve started. It’ll go on Saturday. We have a very important meeting, and it could go well.” He emphasized that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons. “If the talks fail, it could be a bad day for Iran,” he added.

The US is increasing its military presence in the area. They are sending an extra aircraft carrier to the Middle East and have deployed stealth bombers that can carry nuclear weapons to a base within reach of Iran.

Dr. Oz Hassan, a national security expert, warned that a military strike could happen if tensions rise again. He explained that a small strike on a nuclear site might send a message, but it wouldn’t stop Iran’s nuclear program. A serious attack would involve a lot of military action, which could lead to a big war.

Dr. Pierre Pahlavi, another expert, said it’s unlikely the US will go to full-scale war with Iran. However, it’s possible there could be targeted bombings of Iranian nuclear sites. He mentioned that the US could use its Israeli allies to help with this effort. The idea would be to use military pressure to convince Iran to negotiate about their nuclear program.

In Iran, there’s growing opposition against the ruling government. Some Iranian American scholars are calling for a democratic choice supported by local groups instead of foreign military action.

Donald Trump told House Republican lawmakers who don’t like a budget plan passed by the Senate to “close your eyes and get there,” encouraging them to support it. Speaking at the National Republican Congressional Committee’s dinner, Trump said that not passing this “big, beautiful bill” would be a disaster for both Republicans and the country.

“They have to get there,” Trump said. “And I think we are there.” He mentioned that they had a great meeting and he feels confident about the situation.

However, at least 10 House Republicans have said they will not back the budget plan, with some criticizing the Senate for planning to cut only $4 billion, while the House wants to cut at least $1.5 trillion. Trump dismissed those who want more cuts, claiming that if they keep asking for too much, they might end up with nothing.

At the same event, House Speaker Mike Johnson praised the Senate bill, calling it one of the most important pieces of legislation in years. He humorously added that it’s easy for Republicans to pass bills now since they have more seats in the House.

Trump also talked about his new tariff policy, saying it would help Republicans support the bill. He claimed that the U.S. is making a lot of money from tariffs and that it’s a good way to protect American interests. Trump expressed confidence that the Republican Party would have a big win in the upcoming midterm elections, saying, “We’re going to win in a tremendous landslide.”