- Published on
03-31-2023
- Authors
- Name
- AI Writer
- @danwakeem
Justice Department files lawsuit against Norfolk Southern over Ohio train derailment
The US Justice Department has launched a civil lawsuit against Norfolk Southern over a train crash which took place last month in Ohio. The suit was launched on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency, which is seeking injunctive relief and monetary penalties from Norfolk Southern for the costs associated with the crash's aftermath. The DOJ claims that the company is responsible for discharging pollutants and oil into local waterways as well as reducing spending on repairs and maintenance. The complaint asks for a judge to order Norfolk Southern to pay civil penalties of 55,808 per day or $2,232 per barrel of oil or unit of hazardous substances spilled.
Belarus to deploy nuclear weapons, may introduce strategic weapons: President Lukashenko
Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has stated that he plans to deploy small yield nuclear weapons in Belarus and may introduce strategic weapons if necessary. During his state of the nation address, Lukashenko accused Western countries of trying to destroy Belarus and Russia. Recently, Putin announced that Russia also intended to deploy short-range nuclear weapons in Belarus.
Virgin Orbit to lay off 85% of workers after failed launch mission
Richard Branson’s satellite launch company, Virgin Orbit, is cutting 675 jobs, approximately 85% of its workforce, after failing to secure funding following a botched mission in January. The company said the job cuts would take place across all areas, costing an estimated $15.5m, most of which would be incurred in the first quarter. The company, which has so far completed four successful launches from California for commercial and US government defence use, had confirmed that operations had been paused earlier this month.
Inflation remains a concern for the US economy as prices rise again in February
The latest figures from the Commerce Department show that inflation pressures continue to grip the US economy. While inflation eased slightly from January, year-over-year prices are still 5%, which is above the Fed's 2% target. Consumer spending has also dropped from a 2% increase in January to 0.2% in February. Financial analysts are still uncertain about the inflation outlook, but many believe the Fed has to keep up its efforts to keep it under control.
Pirates abandon ship and kidnap crew in West Africa
The Monjasa Reformer tanker was attacked by pirates and the crew took refuge in a citadel. However, three crew members were kidnapped and taken hostage. The crew's nationalities have not been announced, nor are any details given as to where they are being held or whether any were injured. The Gulf of Guinea, although the world's most dangerous spot for attacks on ships, has not seen regular attacks. The Monjasa Reformer sustained no damage in the incident.
Dozens die in India as temple collapses during ritual
A temple complex in Indore, India collapsed during a religious ritual, leading to the death of dozens of people who fell into the well under the temple. 140 rescuers, including army personnel, recovered 36 bodies. Witnesses said the structure caved in as it could not handle the weight of the large crowd. A case of culpable homicide has been brought against the temple board, though no one has been arrested yet. The tragedy has sparked a nationwide conversation about the safety and regulation of religious sites.
Wimbledon allows some Russian, Belarusian players after ban
Wimbledon reversed its ban on some Russian and Belarusian tennis players for this year's tournament. The players will be required to sign declarations of neutrality and comply with restrictions such as not accepting funding from the Russian or Belarusian states.
Ukrainian President Calls for Punishment of Russian Atrocities in Bucha
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for justice for the atrocities committed by the Russian military, particularly in the town of Bucha. Meanwhile, the Belarusian President has raised the stakes in the war by suggesting that Russia could deploy strategic nuclear weapons in the country, further escalating tensions with Ukraine. The UN has verified over 8,400 deaths since the war’s outset, and Russia continues its bombardment of the region. While Hungary is calling for EU peacekeeping troops to intervene, Russia maintains that Ukraine has rejected talks under pressure from Western allies.
Explosions Heard Over Damascus After Airstrikes by Israeli Forces
Israel carried out strikes early Friday morning near Damascus targeting arms depots for government forces and Iran-backed groups. The strike caused material damage and an Iranian military adviser was reportedly killed. Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in Syria in recent years, targeting bases of Iran-allied militant groups, including Hezbollah. The country rarely acknowledges its specific operations, but it has a reported policy of preventing Iranian arms shipments to militant groups backed by Tehran.
Record 4.5 tonnes of cocaine found in banana boxes by police in Norway
Police in Oslo discovered a record-breaking 4.5 tonnes of cocaine in banana boxes at a warehouse facility belonging to Bama, Norway's largest fruit and vegetable wholesaler. They commented that the seizure was too early to indicate if Norway was the final destination for the drugs, or if it was being used for transit. The previous largest seizure of the drug was in 2013, when 145 kilograms were found hidden in banana boxes.