Kazakhstan has commenced construction of the $800 million Alatau Iconic Complex, set to transform the area near Almaty by 2029. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the development will feature two striking towers and aims to become a major economic hub. Major excavation begins in May.

Trump’s repeated insults towards Starmer over the Iran war continue as the PM states he will “not back down.”

The EU has enacted a comprehensive customs reform to manage increasing trade volumes and streamline standards enforcement. The agreement, deemed the most significant since 1968, introduces a customs data hub for efficient monitoring and simplified procedures for compliant traders, while enhancing controls on non-compliant goods.

PUTIN’S REQUEST
Putin seeks financial support from oligarchs to bolster defence budget as costs of Ukraine war escalate.
This could exacerbate existing economic challenges in Russia.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

A 90-year-old woman and her daughter have tragically died in a car crash in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire. An arrest has been made on suspicion of drug driving, with investigations ongoing this morning.

Valérie Hayer, MEP and President of Renew Europe, discussed key policy directions and strategies for enhancing the bloc’s economic resilience. She emphasised the importance of innovation and collaboration among EU member states to address current challenges and strengthen economic stability across Europe.

Media Lens: UK Peace Activists Demand Action: how coverage differs Dominant factual development: Trump rallies ahead of 2024 presidential election.…

UK MORNING BRIEFING

A gang member serving a life sentence for murder has received an additional three years for attacking a taxi driver. This news comes after a court appearance this morning regarding a separate incident involving grievous bodily harm.

Maurizio Gasparri has resigned as Forza Italia’s Senate group leader, marking the fourth resignation within the ruling majority in three days. This follows the defeat of the Yes camp in the justice referendum, triggering significant instability and prompting calls for a revised centre-left agenda.

Iran has rejected the US peace plan, proposing its own five-point resolution. Conditions include halting aggression and ensuring safety against future attacks. Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed Tehran’s stance of self-defence unless demands are met.