Russian President Vladimir Putin has initiated a search for properties once belonging to the Russian Empire or the Soviet Union, directing officials to identify and secure these assets abroad. The undisclosed budget for the operation and specific targeted properties have heightened speculation about Putin's ambitions, particularly in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The order underscores Putin's interest in former imperial possessions, raising concerns among neighboring states. At its zenith, the Russian Empire extended into modern-day Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Finland. The move amplifies existing worries as Putin issues threats to Latvia and Finland, citing concerns over Russian-speaking populations and NATO membership, respectively.

Tata Steel, owner of Port Talbot steelworks, officially announces the closure of its two blast furnaces, a move termed "absolutely devastating" by unions. The decision, impacting up to 2,800 jobs directly and many more in the local community, is attributed to the plant's financial challenges. Unions, including Unite, contemplate strikes, while political figures like Keir Starmer urge reconsideration of proposals to avert compulsory redundancies. Tata's shift towards greener, cheaper steelmaking operations follows a £500m financial backing from the UK government. The closure, coupled with similar proposals at British Steel Scunthorpe, leaves the UK without the ability to produce steel from scratch.

Tata's ambitious overhaul of the Port Talbot steel plant, including shutting blast furnaces, aims to cut Wales' carbon emissions by 15-20%. The shift to an electric arc furnace could reduce site emissions by 85%, aligning with net-zero goals. However, critics argue it may cost thousands of jobs, creating an urgency for a "just transition." The Institute of Welsh Affairs highlights the need for better worker preparation and green job opportunities. Environmentalists stress the importance of a greener future but emphasize the balance needed during this transition. The UK's reliance on imported steel during the transition raises environmental concerns.            

A Ukrainian drone targeted a Russian oil storage depot near the Ukrainian border, igniting a massive blaze, as Ukraine intensifies attacks on Russian soil ahead of the war's two-year anniversary. The strike on Klintsy follows President Zelenskyy's pledge to target more locations within Russian borders this year. Russian cities near the border heighten security due to the drone threat. Another drone reportedly attacked a gunpowder mill in Tambov, while a Russian Defense Ministry statement confirms a downed drone near St. Petersburg. The situation escalates amid ongoing conflict, with casualties reported in Ukraine's Kharkiv region. tensions rise as the war anniversary approaches.

In 2023, Canada welcomed over 62,000 international students as permanent residents, with Indians leading despite a 4% decline in permits due to diplomatic tensions. The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reported a significant increase of 9,670 from 2022. Most achieved residency through work experience post-graduation and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams. Concerns arise about housing affordability and potential caps on non-permanent residents, with Minister Marc Miller considering reforms. Express Entry remains a swift path, contributing to Canada's demographic growth with around 330,000 Indian immigrants and students by 2023.

An Atlas Air Boeing 747-8 cargo plane made an emergency landing at Miami International Airport after experiencing engine trouble shortly after takeoff. "The crew followed all standard procedures and safely returned to MIA," Atlas Air said. Videos on social media showed flames erupting from the aircraft's left wing while in flight. The company said it would inspect the plane to determine the cause. The Boeing 747-8 is powered by four GEnx engines. Reuters reported no injuries were recorded, though the number of crew onboard is unclear. This incident comes as Boeing faces ongoing scrutiny after recent emergencies, including an Alaska Airlines MAX 9 that lost part of its fuselage after takeoff in Oregon.

A viral video circulating online allegedly shows the Israeli Defense Forces bombing the main campus building of the Al-Israa University in Gaza. The footage depicts explosions erupting within what appears to be an abandoned structure. In response, the US State Department has requested clarification from Israel about the video. Witnesses in Khan Yunis, Gaza described hearing gunfire and air strikes as the IDF targeted the area, claiming it as a Hamas stronghold. The US spokesperson refrained from commenting further pending more information.

Following retaliatory air strikes between Pakistan and Iran, nine people, including three women and four children, are reported dead. Iran emphasizes commitment to "good neighbourly relations" but urges Pakistan to prevent "terrorist bases" on its soil. Russia calls for "maximum restraint," warning against escalating tensions between the two nations. Baloch activist condemns attacks, highlighting indiscriminate deployment of missiles. Pakistan's armed forces on "extremely high alert," vowing forceful response to further "misadventures." International concerns rise as Turkey urges restraint and India emphasizes a hands-off approach. Iran plans a major military exercise near the Pakistan border, raising fears of broader regional instability.

In the wake of missile strikes between Iran and Pakistan, Iran has summoned Pakistan's charge d'affaires to protest against the attack. Pakistan conducted "precision military strikes" in Iran's Siestan-Balochistan province, resulting in nine casualties. The strikes were seen as retaliation to Iranian attacks on 'Jaish al-Adl' bases in Pakistan. China offered to play a constructive role in easing tensions, emphasizing respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. Pakistan, facing an economic crisis, is navigating a tough IMF bailout program. The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts unfold to mitigate the escalation.

Tata Steel plans to close blast furnaces at Port Talbot, cutting 3,000 jobs in a move expected to be formally announced Friday. The closure, impacting the majority in Port Talbot, aims to replace blast furnaces with a modern electric arc furnace. Critics call it the "worst case scenario," raising concerns about UK dependence on foreign steel. Government promises support for affected employees and the local economy. Unite union accuses Tata of playing games with livelihoods, vowing to fight for steelworkers. The decision follows a meeting with unions, escalating worries about the decline of the UK steel industry.