Year: 2026

Trump proposes a historic $1.5trn defence budget with a $500bn increase, cutting non-defence spending by 10% for fiscal 2027.

Bulgarian writer Irina Papancheva’s latest work, Brussels Naked, explores the unpredictable nature of Brussels through the eyes of a young journalist. The novel features twelve interconnected stories, revealing varied experiences within the EU’s capital, showcasing both its enchantment and cruelties.

Sarinasadat Hosseiny, grand-niece of Qasem Soleimani, was arrested alongside her mother, Hamideh Soleimani Afshar, in Los Angeles after their permanent resident status was revoked. This forms part of a larger crackdown on individuals linked to Iran; further developments are expected.

Pepsi withdraws sponsorship of Wireless Festival following criticism over Kanye West’s booking amid his antisemitic remarks.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announced the discovery of explosives near the Balkan Stream gas pipeline that supplies Serbia and Hungary. Found in backpacks in Kanjiza, the explosives prompted Hungary’s Orbán to convene an extraordinary defence council. No motives for the placement have been disclosed.

What’s happening?
A U.S. crew member missing after a fighter jet crash in Iran has been rescued, according to statements from President Trump. The operation involved U.S. forces and resulted in the destruction of two planes during the rescue.

Coverage analyzed: CBS News | The Wall Street Journal | CNN | The New York Times
CBS News headlines emphasize the rescue of the airman with the phrasing, “Missing U.S. crew member rescued,” highlighting a successful recovery. In contrast, the Wall Street Journal focuses on the operational aspect, stating, “Two Planes Destroyed by U.S. During Rescue Operation,” which implies a more militaristic approach and the collateral damage involved. This framing suggests a tension between the humanitarian success of the rescue and the military implications of the operation, whereas CNN’s headline, “Inside the mission to recover a downed American airman,” prioritizes the event’s narrative without emphasizing either conflict or rescue directly. The New York Times notes both sides being “emboldened,” focusing on broader geopolitical implications rather than specifics of the operation.

CEO KILLED
An American CEO was fatally injured in a crash during a family holiday in Nicaragua this morning.
Her 11-year-old son is reported to be critically injured.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

This morning, supermarkets have confirmed their Easter opening hours. All large stores in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will close on Easter Sunday, with many operating reduced hours on Easter Monday.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautioned that the protracted conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran might divert Washington’s focus from Ukraine, jeopardising essential supplies of Patriot air defence systems. Zelenskyy stressed Ukraine’s urgent need for these systems to counter Russia’s ongoing attacks on urban centres and infrastructure.

EUROPEAN UPDATE

This morning, Europe focuses on economic stability and energy resilience amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Key discussions continue on sustainable solutions.