Moscow, Russia – Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a surprise unilateral Easter ceasefire in Ukraine, ordering a temporary 30-hour halt to military operations, the Kremlin confirmed Saturday.
The truce, set to begin at 4 p.m. Saturday and last until 10 p.m. on Easter Sunday (UK time), was declared “guided by humanitarian considerations,” according to Putin, who made the announcement during a meeting with Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. The Kremlin later shared his remarks on its official Telegram channel.
“I order that all military actions be stopped for this period,” said Putin, referencing the religious significance of Easter and expressing hope that Ukraine would observe the ceasefire. Despite the gesture, he instructed Russian forces to remain on high alert for any violations.
“Our troops must be prepared to react to possible violations of the ceasefire and provocations by the adversary, to any aggressive actions,” he warned.
Putin accused Ukraine of repeatedly violating a previous 30-day “energy truce,” which began March 18 and was later joined by Kyiv under U.S. mediation, claiming over 100 breaches.
The ceasefire announcement comes amid growing pressure from international powers. Just hours earlier, reports surfaced that former U.S. President Donald Trump had issued a warning that Washington could withdraw from peace efforts unless Russia and Ukraine show progress in ending the conflict.
Putin reiterated Moscow’s openness to peace talks and praised efforts from Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and BRICS nations for advocating a “peaceful and fair resolution to the Ukrainian crisis.”
However, the Russian president has consistently pushed back on calls for broader or prolonged ceasefires, arguing they would give Ukrainian forces time to regroup and receive more weapons from the West.
“This Easter truce will be a litmus test of the Kyiv regime’s sincerity, its commitment to agreements, and its real desire for peace,” Putin said.
Putin, a devout Orthodox Christian, is expected to attend the Easter vigil at Moscow’s Christ the Savior Cathedral on Saturday night.
New Delhi, India – Manoj Pandit, the Delhi State President of the Akhil Bhartiya Brahmin Mahasabha Youth Wing, has submitted a memorandum to the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister of Delhi, demanding strict legal action against filmmaker Anurag Kashyap.
In the memorandum, Pandit accused Kashyap of making statements that have deeply hurt the sentiments of the Brahmin community. He alleged that such remarks are made to gain cheap publicity for his films, adding that the Brahmin society is a significant and respected part of Indian culture and history.
“Our community has made invaluable contributions to the nation’s development and social progress,” said Pandit. “Yet, we have been witnessing a rise in objectionable and baseless comments targeting our society. Such remarks are sparking resentment among Brahmins.”
He emphasized that while the Brahmin community has always been tolerant and law-abiding, it will not accept continuous disrespect. He urged the authorities to consider the community’s growing anger over Kashyap’s recent comments—particularly those referencing “Awadh”—and take immediate legal steps to prevent such statements in the future.
Manoj Pandit also reiterated that the Akhil Bharatvarsiya Brahmin Mahasabha respects all communities, but would not tolerate any attempt to hurt Brahmin sentiments. He warned that failure to act may lead the Mahasabha to launch an agitation.
“This is not just about one individual’s remark,” he added. “It’s about maintaining harmony and respect among all communities. Spreading hatred and misinformation through such statements cannot be allowed.”
The Youth Wing has called on the Delhi government to intervene promptly to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents going forward.
Ljubljana, Slovenia — Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar hosted Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, on Friday for high-level discussions centered on expanding bilateral economic cooperation and addressing major international challenges, including the situations in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Western Sahara.
The meeting emphasized the shared ambition to strengthen economic integration between Slovenia and Morocco, particularly in key sectors such as renewable energy, logistics, and technology. Both countries affirmed their commitment to advancing trade and investment opportunities as part of a broader strategic partnership.
Alongside economic matters, the talks also delved into the evolving global landscape. The leaders exchanged views on Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, reaffirming the importance of multilateral diplomacy in resolving such conflicts.
Slovenian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tanja Fajon and Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, join hands during a meeting in Ljubljana on April 18, 2025. Photo : via MEA
A major highlight of the day came during a joint press conference held in Ljubljana, where Slovenian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tanja Fajon reiterated her country’s support for Morocco’s 2007 autonomy initiative for Western Sahara. She described the plan as a “good basis for a final solution” to the regional conflict and praised Morocco’s “serious and credible efforts” to resolve the issue.
“Speaking at a press conference following a meeting in the Slovenian capital with Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita, Fajon also praised Morocco’s serious and credible efforts to settle the Moroccan Sahara issue,” the Slovenian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Fajon reaffirmed Slovenia’s position as expressed in the Joint Declaration adopted during her official visit to Rabat on June 11, 2024. That declaration, both ministers agreed, serves as the benchmark for the renewed momentum in bilateral relations and formalizes Slovenia’s stance on the Moroccan Sahara.
In a statement following the talks, Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the declaration “serves as a reference point for the new momentum in bilateral relations and reflects Slovenia’s stance on the regional conflict concerning the Moroccan Sahara.”
The two foreign ministers also underlined the central role of the United Nations in resolving the Western Sahara issue. They reaffirmed their support for the exclusivity of the UN-led political process and expressed their backing for relevant UN Security Council resolutions, including the latest, Resolution 2756 (2024).
Fajon further reiterated Slovenia’s long-standing commitment to a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution based on compromise, in accordance with UN-led efforts.
The day’s meetings marked a significant step forward in Moroccan-Slovenian ties, not only economically but also diplomatically, as both countries strengthen their coordination on pressing global issues and regional stability.
ADEN/WASHINGTON — At least 74 people were killed and 171 others injured after U.S. airstrikes targeted Yemen’s Ras Isa fuel terminal on the Red Sea coast, in what Houthi officials described as the deadliest attack since Washington began its military campaign against the group last year.
The strike, carried out Thursday, hit a key fuel facility used by the Iran-aligned Houthis and came amid a broader escalation ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump last month — the largest U.S. military operation in the Middle East since he took office in January.
According to Yemen’s Houthi-run Health Ministry, rescue operations are ongoing as emergency crews continue to search for victims in the rubble. The U.S. military has confirmed the strike but has not commented on the reported death toll.
“The objective of these strikes was to degrade the economic source of power of the Houthis, who continue to exploit and bring great pain upon their fellow countrymen,” U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement posted on X.
The Ras Isa terminal, located around 55 kilometers north of the port city of Hodeidah, has a fuel storage capacity of 3 million barrels and plays a critical role in Yemen’s fuel imports and distribution. Yemeni sources said the port also houses a significant military presence and has been previously used for launching drone and missile attacks on Red Sea shipping.
Among the dead were employees of the Safer Oil Company and the Yemen Petroleum Company, which manage operations and oversee the distribution of fuel in the region.
The U.S. has accused the Houthis of using Yemen’s ports — including Ras Isa, Hodeidah, and Salif — to funnel illicit fuel trade and finance militant operations. CENTCOM stated the strikes were intended to dismantle these financial networks and diminish the Houthis’ military capabilities in the Red Sea.
While the U.N. estimates these ports handle 70% of Yemen’s imports and 80% of its humanitarian aid, the U.S. and its allies argue that the Houthis’ control over them has enabled the group to smuggle Iranian weapons and fund terrorism.
Red Crescent personnel move the body of a victim following, what Al Masirah TV said, was a U.S. strike on the Ras Isa fuel port, Yemen, in this screengrab from a handout video released on April 18, 2025. Al-Masirah TV /Handout via REUTERS
In a statement, the Houthis condemned the attack as a “flagrant violation” of Yemen’s sovereignty and international law. “This was a civilian installation vital to the Yemeni people,” a Houthi spokesperson said, accusing Washington of retaliating against Yemen’s support for Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza war.
Yemen’s internationally recognized government, however, blamed the Houthis for militarizing the port, accusing the group of enriching themselves through illegal trade while ordinary citizens suffer.
“The militia has exploited the port for illicit trade and to enrich themselves while ordinary Yemenis have seen no benefit,” said Information Minister Muammar al-Eryani.
Thursday’s strike follows weeks of intensified U.S. operations in response to repeated Houthi drone and missile attacks on commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea. Though the Houthis paused their attacks during a recent ceasefire in Gaza, they vowed to resume operations after Israeli forces renewed their offensive in the enclave.
According to Houthi officials, nearly 100 civilians have died in U.S. bombings over the past month alone. Yemen’s Red Crescent has confirmed the latest death toll and said teams are still working to extinguish fires and recover bodies from the heavily damaged terminal.
CENTCOM reiterated that all operations are conducted with the intent to avoid civilian harm, asserting that Thursday’s strike specifically targeted infrastructure supporting Houthi military activity.
As tensions escalate in the region, analysts warn that the growing U.S. military footprint and deepening humanitarian crisis in Yemen risk further destabilizing the fragile Red Sea corridor — a vital artery for global trade.
New Delhi, India – Across Asia, Christian communities marked Good Friday with solemn rituals, processions, and prayers, reflecting on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the message of sacrifice, redemption, and hope.
From the bustling cities of the Philippines to the quiet churches of South Korea and India, believers gathered in large numbers to commemorate one of the most sacred days on the Christian calendar.
In India, Jalandhar’s Christian Communities Unite in Reverent Good Friday Observance on April 18, 2025
On April 18, 2025, the Christian communities of Jalandhar, Punjab, came together in deep reverence to observe the solemn occasion of Good Friday, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The day was marked by heartfelt prayers, services, and processions, reflecting the central Christian values of love, sacrifice, and redemption.
A significant highlight of the observance was the grand Good Friday event organized by the Ankur Narula Ministry in Khambra Village. Thousands of devotees gathered for the occasion, led by Apostle Ankur Yoseph Narula, Senior Pastor and Overseer of The Church of Signs and Wonders, one of Punjab’s largest and fastest-growing ministries. The gathering saw participants from diverse backgrounds come together in worship, honoring Jesus Christ’s selfless sacrifice. Apostle Narula emphasized that Christ came for the salvation of all people—beyond any nation or community, and not just for Christians alone.
Thousands of devotees gathered at the Church of Signs and Wonders in Khambra Village to worship Jesus Christ on Good Friday, 18 April, 2025. Photo: Video Screenshot from ANM
The Church of Signs and Wonders, located on Nakodar Road in Khambra Village, has become a beacon of spiritual unity. With nearly three lakh members and branches across Punjab, as well as in the US, Canada, and Germany, the ministry has extended its outreach significantly. The Good Friday service, which ran from 6 PM to 11 PM, was filled with worship, prayer, and expressions of gratitude. Apostle Narula, described as anointed and Spirit-filled, led the congregation in glorifying the name of Jesus Christ.
The observance highlighted the vibrant presence of Christian ministries in Punjab, with the Church of Signs and Wonders standing out for its outreach and spiritual healing services. This Good Friday, the faithful in Jalandhar came together, demonstrating that the message of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice resonates universally and unites people from all walks of life in a shared expression of faith and hope.
In the Philippines, Asia’s largest Catholic nation, thousands of faithful joined reenactments of the Passion of Christ in provinces such as Pampanga and Bulacan. Some devotees engaged in acts of penance, including self-flagellation and crucifixion reenactments—an intense form of devotion that draws international attention each year.
In Sri Lanka, which has seen growing interfaith efforts in recent years, Good Friday was observed peacefully, with joint interfaith messages from Christian and Buddhist leaders calling for compassion, justice, and reconciliation.
Meanwhile, Christians in Pakistan gathered in cathedrals and small chapels alike, lighting candles and praying under tight security. In Lahore, Archbishop Sebastian Shaw called for national harmony and encouraged believers to “be instruments of peace and forgiveness, following the example of Christ.”
In South Korea, where Christianity is a major religion, churches held quiet vigils and solemn services. The Yoido Full Gospel Church and Myeongdong Cathedral in Seoul hosted thousands of attendees, many of whom reflected on the significance of the day amid growing concerns over regional security.
Across Indonesia, home to a significant Christian minority, Good Friday services were held with a strong message of interreligious respect. President Joko Widodo extended greetings to Christian citizens, reaffirming the country’s commitment to religious tolerance.
In Malaysia, Good Friday is officially observed as a public holiday in the states of Sabah and Sarawak, where the day is marked by church services and community-led gatherings reflecting on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim extended his warm greetings to Christians in Malaysia in honor of Good Friday and Easter Sunday, urging all Malaysians to embrace the values of love, unity, and mutual respect.
This year, the Easter Vigil was especially significant, with more than 2,000 individuals across the country preparing for baptism. Of these, 1,047 were newly baptized in Peninsular Malaysia, with a comparable number receiving the sacrament in Malaysian Borneo.
Some worshippers wear face masks while attending an Easter march on Good Friday at Tin Shui Wai. Photo: Yik Yeung-man/SCMP
Good Friday is recognized as a public holiday in Hong Kong, with schools and most businesses closed, allowing the faithful to participate in religious services and processions. Time and Date
Churches across the city held special services, including the Stations of the Cross and Passion narratives, reflecting the solemnity of the day. In areas like North Point, congregations gathered for live services, fostering a sense of community and reflection.
This year’s observances were particularly poignant as they come during a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and humanitarian crises in various parts of the world. Clergy across the continent urged believers to reflect on the meaning of sacrifice and extend compassion to those suffering from war, displacement, and poverty.
As Asia’s diverse Christian communities marked this sacred day, the unifying message of Good Friday—of love, sacrifice, and the hope of renewal—resonated across churches, homes, and hearts.
Rome, Italy — U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni in Rome on Friday for a second round of high-stakes talks on tariffs, just a day after their Oval Office meeting with former President Donald Trump. The two leaders later attended Good Friday services at the Vatican, fueling speculation of a potential meeting between Vance and Pope Francis over the weekend.
Greeting Vance at the Chigi Palace, Meloni joked, “I’ve been missing you,” referencing their back-to-back meetings. Their discussions centered on transatlantic trade tensions and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Vance stating that negotiations with the European Union remain a priority.
The White House and Meloni’s office issued a joint statement confirming that Trump would visit Italy “in the very near future,” adding that a broader U.S.-EU meeting is also under consideration.
“This visit is another great opportunity to strengthen our bilateral cooperation,” Meloni said, emphasizing Italy’s vital role as a U.S. partner in Europe and the Mediterranean.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, and his wife Usha Vance, with their daughter Mirabel, back to camera, and sons Vivek and Ewan, left, attend a Good Friday service inside St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, Friday, April 18, 2025. Photo: AP/Alessandra Tarantino
Vance, a Catholic convert, later attended the solemn Good Friday service at St. Peter’s Basilica alongside his wife and children. Though Pope Francis was absent due to health concerns, Vance is scheduled to meet with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin on Saturday. While no official meeting with the Pope has been announced, Vatican insiders have not ruled out the possibility.
The potential audience with Francis comes against the backdrop of past tensions. Vance has previously criticized the Pope’s stance on migration, clashing with the pontiff’s emphasis on humanitarian care. Francis, in turn, appeared to rebut Vance’s theological justifications for U.S. immigration policies in a February letter to American bishops, urging a more inclusive interpretation of Christian doctrine.
As the Easter weekend unfolds, all eyes remain on Rome, where diplomacy, religion, and politics continue to intersect in complex and symbolic ways.
Paris, France — France played host to pivotal high-level talks on Ukraine’s security Thursday, marking the first time since President Donald Trump’s inauguration that top U.S., Ukrainian, and European officials have met together to discuss the ongoing war. The talks, which took place at the French presidential palace, came at a time of mounting concerns about Trump’s stance toward Russia and the stalled efforts to broker a ceasefire in Ukraine.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and presidential envoy Steve Witkoff, along with senior Ukrainian and European officials, participated in hours of separate discussions before French President Emmanuel Macron brought them together for a final round of talks. Macron characterized the discussions as an essential “convergence” and announced that the same format would continue next week in London.
French President Emmanuel Macron, left, welcomes US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, center, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for a meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris, Thursday April 17, 2025. Photo : Ludovic Marin, Pool Photo via AP
The gathering occurred amid rising frustrations in Europe over Trump’s foreign policy decisions, including his rhetoric surrounding NATO, tariffs on key allies, and his attempts to engage with Russia. There is increasing anxiety about Trump’s perceived readiness to align more closely with Moscow, further complicating efforts to end the war.
The American Perspective
Rubio shared on X that the American delegation’s primary goal in Paris was to “secure real, practical solutions to end the Russia-Ukraine war.” He also spoke by phone with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to convey the same message. According to U.S. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, Rubio relayed that “President Trump and the United States want this war to end, and have now presented to all parties the outlines of a durable and lasting peace.” The U.S. emphasized that the encouraging reception in Paris for their peace framework shows that a resolution is within reach if all parties are committed.
Until now, U.S. efforts have focused on separate negotiations with Ukraine and Russia, with European diplomats largely excluded from the talks. Experts view this meeting as a major shift, particularly since it is believed to be the first time Witkoff, Trump’s chief envoy for Russia, has met with senior Ukrainian officials.
Alina Polyakova, president of the Center for European Policy Analysis, highlighted the importance of involving Europe in the peace process, noting that “this is not just about a swath of territory in Ukraine… this is about broader questions of European security.”
Ukraine’s Priorities
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a statement, emphasized the need for security guarantees and said his delegation was tasked with discussing both full and partial ceasefire proposals, though not touching on Ukraine’s territorial integrity. French officials later confirmed that U.S. negotiators were open to discussing security guarantees but offered few details.
Ukrainian presidential adviser Andrii Yermak stated that the discussions centered on the next steps toward achieving a “just and lasting peace,” including plans for a full ceasefire, the deployment of a multinational military force, and the establishment of an effective security architecture for Ukraine.
A Coalition for Peace
A significant topic was the formation of a coalition of nations, led by the UK and France, to help enforce any future peace agreement with Russia. However, the coalition’s success would require strong U.S. support, particularly in terms of airpower or military assistance, which the Trump administration has yet to publicly commit to.
Polyakova pointed out that peace efforts have so far faltered because Russian President Vladimir Putin seems unwilling to agree to a ceasefire, opting instead to stall negotiations. The Trump administration has mainly offered Moscow incentives, or “carrots,” but has been criticized for lacking sufficient leverage, or “sticks,” to force meaningful change.
The question now is whether these talks will prompt a shift in the U.S. strategy, Polyakova said.
Diplomatic Success for Macron
French President Macron, who has been in frequent communication with both Zelenskyy and Trump, spoke twice with the Ukrainian leader during the day’s talks. Macron’s involvement in these diplomatic efforts has been praised as instrumental in facilitating the convergence of U.S., Ukrainian, and European officials. France heralded Thursday’s discussions as a diplomatic success, reflecting the strength of Macron’s relationships with both Trump and Zelenskyy.
The ongoing meetings are seen as a crucial step in shaping the future of Ukraine and Europe’s security in the wake of the ongoing conflict.
Astana, Kazakhstan — Kazakh Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek delivered a landmark address outlining Kazakhstan’s sweeping plans to transform its science and higher education landscape, positioning the nation as a rising global hub for academic excellence, innovation, and technological leadership.
In a comprehensive lecture attended by international stakeholders, Nurbek detailed Kazakhstan’s national strategy for science and education reform through 2029, centered on global integration, AI-driven development, and youth empowerment.
From Resource Wealth to Innovation Powerhouse
Highlighting Kazakhstan’s rich reserves of 99 mineral elements—60 of which are actively mined—the Minister emphasized the nation’s role as a top global producer of uranium, chromium, and barite. Coupled with significant investments in renewable energy—wind (820 MWh), hydro (62 MWh), and solar (2.5 MWh)—Kazakhstan is anchoring its development on both sustainability and technological advancement.
“Kazakhstan is strategically positioned to become the Eurasian center of gravity,” Nurbek declared. “We are building bridges between East and West, connecting ideas, people, and technologies.”
The 2023–2029 National Strategy: Four Pillars of Progress
Kazakhstan’s science and education development plan, launched in 2023, features four key outcomes, 58 specific initiatives, and eight measurable indicators:
New Model of Science Administration: A legislative overhaul in July 2024 introduced a modern Science and Technology Policy focused on reducing bureaucracy, incentivizing research, and aligning with international standards.
Strengthening Human Capital: The Zhas Galym program will support 250 global internships and 1,000 research grants. Employment models are shifting to prioritize practical science roles with new scientist-engineer-technician ratios.
University Innovation Hubs: With 16 billion tenge invested, science parks and engineering centers will emerge at top universities including ENU, KazNRTU, and KazATU, focusing on sustainable technologies, energy, and agri-tech.
Commercialization and Digitalization: Enhanced funding models, tax incentives, and digital tools aim to stimulate private-sector collaboration and accelerate the commercialization of research.
AI-SANA: Kazakhstan’s Leap into Deeptech and AI Leadership
A highlight of the lecture was the unveiling of the AI-SANA initiative—“The Springboard of Technology”—which will train 100,000 students in AI and entrepreneurship by 2025. Backed by global partners such as Google, NVIDIA, Huawei, and Coursera, and academic leaders like Stanford University, the initiative aims to place Kazakhstan at the forefront of deeptech innovation.
The country’s new AI Academic Cluster, featuring 2 PFLOPS of computing power across major universities, will anchor Kazakhstan’s role in regional AI leadership. A partnership with Huawei will further develop smart campuses and R&D infrastructure.
To fuel this innovation, a $100 million Deep Tech Fund—in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s NDTP—will support startups across Central Asia and the MENA region.
Global Partnerships and Academic Excellence
Kazakhstan’s education system is undergoing a bold transformation, marked by high-profile partnerships with:
Coventry University (UK) – With a $50M investment and capacity for 3,200 students
University of Arizona (USA) – Joint programs with Kozybayev University
Université de Lorraine (France) – Specialized degrees in social sciences and business
Arizona State University – Globally ranked for innovation and inclusion
MEPhI (Russia) – A leading institution in nuclear engineering and physics
These collaborations reflect Kazakhstan’s commitment to internationalization and excellence in education.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
Kazakhstan’s geographic position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia is bolstered by expansive infrastructure:
2 seaports (Aktau, Kuryk) with 27 million tons capacity
Handling over 1.5 million tons of transit cargo annually, Kazakhstan is a vital link in the Middle Corridor, transporting 80% of Central Asia’s trade.
Cultural Ties and Global Outlook
Nurbek also celebrated Kazakhstan’s diplomatic and cultural bonds, especially with India, recalling the historic 1955 visit of Prime Minister Nehru and Indira Gandhi. These ties are now evolving into dynamic educational and technological partnerships.
A Platform for Reform and Dialogue
The Forum of Strategic Partners, held during the CONNECTED-2024 conference in Astana, gathered over 300 experts to discuss academic quality, AI integration, sustainability, and digital transformation. The newly established International Council under the Ministry will oversee reforms to align Kazakhstan’s system with global competitiveness.
Looking Ahead: Science as a National Engine
Minister Nurbek concluded with a powerful message:
“Only science that is organically connected with production can truly drive a nation forward. Kazakhstan is not just adapting to the AI revolution — we are shaping it.”
With over 31,500 international students and 30+ foreign university programs already active, Kazakhstan is emerging as a beacon for innovation, higher learning, and global scientific progress.
The vision laid out by Minister Sayasat Nurbek reflects a confident, forward-looking Kazakhstan ready to lead Central Asia—and beyond—into a future defined by knowledge, technology, and sustainable growth.
Buenos Aires, Argentine – An Argentine appeals court has upheld the indictment of former President Alberto Fernández (2019–2023) on gender-based violence charges, advancing a landmark case that could see the ex-head of state stand trial for the alleged abuse of his former partner, Fabiola Yáñez.
The decision, issued Tuesday by the National Criminal and Correctional Appeals Court, confirms a February 17 ruling by Federal Judge Julián Ercolini, which accuses Fernández of committing both physical and psychological abuse against Yáñez between 2016 and August 2024 — a relationship the court described as shaped by a “notorious power imbalance.”
Judges Cite “Marked Power Asymmetry” and Pattern of Abuse
The majority decision by Judges Martín Irurzun and Eduardo Farah, with a dissent from Judge Roberto Boico, affirms that the alleged abuse occurred within a context of gender-based violence, in which Fernández is said to have exploited Yáñez’s vulnerability during their relationship.
The court cited a “marked power imbalance, isolation, psychological abuse, and repeated physical aggression,” noting that several incidents allegedly took place at the presidential residence under conditions of forced isolation.
Judge Farah dismissed the defense’s claim that the charges lacked clarity, stating the allegations were “meticulously described” from the beginning of the relationship to the formal complaint filed in 2024.
Defense Denies Abuse, Asserts Counterclaim
Fernández’s legal counsel, Silvina Carreira, has appealed the indictment, arguing that the former president was not the abuser but rather suffered mistreatment himself at the hands of Yáñez. The court, however, dismissed this claim and upheld charges including minor and serious injuries, coercive threats, and abuse of power — all aggravated by the intimate relationship between the two.
The ruling emphasized that Fernández’s status as both President and a public figure with symbolic authority intensified the imbalance of power, stating he was “not only the President of the Nation, but also a public actor with symbolic power.”
A Legal and Political First
This marks the first time in Argentine history that a sitting or former head of state has been criminally indicted for gender-based violence. If convicted, Fernández faces a potential prison sentence of 3 to 18 years.
The indictment details a sustained pattern of verbal humiliation, threats, guilt manipulation, and physical assault across multiple years — raising broader questions about accountability at the highest levels of government.
With the indictment now upheld, Fernández is just one step away from a public oral trial that could set a significant precedent in Latin American political and judicial history.
Brasília, Brazil — Nadine Heredia, Peru’s former First Lady and wife of ex-President Ollanta Humala (2011–2016), arrived in Brazil on Wednesday under diplomatic asylum, mere hours after being sentenced to 15 years in prison for her role in a major corruption scandal involving Brazilian construction conglomerate Odebrecht and funding from Venezuela.
Heredia, accompanied by her youngest son, Samir, who was also granted asylum, landed in Brasília aboard a Brazilian Air Force jet, following a swift approval of her asylum request and the issuance of a safe-conduct pass by Peruvian authorities.
A Regional Scandal Reignited
Heredia and Humala were convicted Tuesday on charges of aggravated money laundering, accused of receiving illegal campaign donations from Odebrecht and late Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez during Peru’s 2006 and 2011 elections.
While Humala was arrested and sent to Barbadillo prison in Lima — where former presidents Alejandro Toledo and Pedro Castillo are also detained — Heredia fled to the Brazilian Embassy in Lima immediately after the verdict, invoking diplomatic protection under the 1954 Caracas Convention on Diplomatic Asylum.
Diplomatic Ripples Across Latin America
The case has triggered heated political debate in Peru, where Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer has been summoned to explain the government’s decision to allow Heredia’s departure. Congressional President Eduardo Salhuana acknowledged the country’s treaty obligations, emphasizing the need to avoid a diplomatic standoff with Brazil, Peru’s top Latin American trade partner.
“The government had no choice under international law,” Salhuana stated. “Refusal could have escalated into a full diplomatic crisis.”
Brazil, invoking the 1954 Caracas Convention, defended its decision despite Peru’s objections concerning Heredia’s conviction on serious financial crimes. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who himself was imprisoned over charges later annulled, signed off on the asylum — reigniting conversations about the region’s history of politicized justice and Brazil’s legacy of offering refuge to embattled leaders.
Brazil’s Legacy of Political Asylum
Brazil has a long-standing tradition of granting asylum to controversial political figures. Among the most notable were Paraguayan dictator Alfredo Stroessner, ex-President Raúl Cubas, and Ecuador’s Lucio Gutiérrez.
Heredia’s legal team confirmed that her exit from Peru was executed in the early hours of Wednesday morning under military protection. Her future in Brazil remains uncertain — it is still unclear whether she and her son will remain in Brasília or relocate elsewhere within the country.
Meanwhile, Heredia’s conviction remains under appeal, potentially opening another chapter in a saga that continues to entangle power, politics, and justice across Latin America.
