A widespread power outage hit Spain, Portugal, and parts of France on April 28, 2025, causing severe disruptions. The blackout affected major cities like Madrid and Lisbon, halting metro services, flights, and train operations. Madrid Open tennis matches were suspended due to power loss, and fans were forced to wait as scoreboards and cameras went offline. In Lisbon, public transport came to a halt, and traffic lights failed. While Spain’s Red Electrica works on restoring power, the cause remains under investigation. Thousands of people were stranded as airports and transport systems grappled with the crisis. (PC: Reuters)

A widespread power outage hit Spain, Portugal, and parts of France on April 28, 2025, leaving millions without electricity and causing massive disruptions. Trains, metros, and airports were halted, with significant delays at Madrid’s Barajas Airport. The blackout, which began around 12:30 p.m. local time, also affected communication networks and caused chaos in major cities. The cause of the outage remains unknown, but officials have confirmed power restoration in certain areas. The disruption, rare for the Iberian Peninsula, continues to impact daily life and travel.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine, from the morning of 8 May until 11 May, citing "humanitarian considerations." The ceasefire coincides with Russia's Victory Day celebrations marking the end of World War Two. The Kremlin urged Ukraine to follow suit, warning of a strong response to any violations. Ukraine has yet to issue a response. A similar ceasefire over Easter saw accusations of multiple violations by both sides. The announcement comes as US-mediated peace talks face a critical moment, with Washington warning it may withdraw support if progress is not made soon.

Nine people were killed and several injured when a 30-year-old man drove into a crowd at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Festival. The incident occurred Saturday night in the Sunset on Fraser neighbourhood. Police ruled out terrorism and said the suspect, apprehended by bystanders, was known to them. A video showed the man apologizing after the crash. Vancouver’s Filipino community, making up 5.9% of the city's population, was deeply impacted. Mayor Ken Sim and Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed condolences, emphasizing government support as investigations continue. The Lapu Lapu Festival honours an Indigenous Filipino chieftain who resisted Spanish colonization. Canada’s federal election is scheduled for Monday. (PC: Al Jazeera)

Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26, the United States urged India and Pakistan to pursue a "responsible resolution" amid rising tensions. Affirming solidarity with India, the US condemned the attack and confirmed ongoing communication with both nations. India has blamed Pakistan-based groups and launched diplomatic measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan called for an independent probe and warned of retaliation. Meanwhile, China backed Pakistan’s demand for a neutral investigation. The attack, the worst since Pulwama in 2019, has heightened regional instability as global powers urge restraint and dialogue. (PC: India Today)

Mourning has turned into anger in Iran after a massive explosion at Shahid Rajaee port killed at least 40 people and injured more than 1,000. Fires continue to rage, and toxic smoke blankets the area, forcing residents to stay indoors. Authorities declared a national day of mourning, but public frustration grows over alleged mishandling of hazardous materials. Speculation links the blast to improperly stored rocket fuel, a claim officials deny. President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered an investigation. Meanwhile, concerns mount over the port’s vital role in Iran’s economy as rescue efforts continue and international condolences pour in. (PC: Getty Images)

Images of Pope Francis's tomb at Rome’s Santa Maria Maggiore have been released, showing a simple stone tomb adorned with a single white rose under a lone spotlight. The beloved pontiff, who died at 88, was laid to rest in a private ceremony following his public funeral at the Vatican. Thousands of mourners, including global leaders, have been visiting the basilica to pay respects. Francis, known for his devotion to the Virgin Mary, had personally chosen the site over Vatican tradition. The Church now prepares for the largest conclave in modern history to elect his successor. (PC: Getty Images)

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26, China reaffirmed its support for Pakistan, calling for restraint between India and Pakistan. During a phone call with Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi advocated an "impartial investigation" and stressed that conflict is not in the region’s interest. China praised Pakistan’s "anti-terrorism efforts" and reiterated its commitment to their strategic partnership. Meanwhile, India continues diplomatic efforts to highlight Pakistan’s role in cross-border terrorism, with leaders across the world expressing solidarity with New Delhi against the attack carried out by the Lashkar-linked Resistance Front. (PC: Hindustan Times)

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has called for an international investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking to Russian media, Asif proposed Russia, China, and Western countries form a team to verify India’s allegations against Pakistan. He emphasized that accusations alone are insufficient without evidence. Meanwhile, Asif admitted in a separate interview with Sky News that Pakistan had historically supported terrorist groups as part of the West’s “dirty work.” The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan amid global calls for restraint.

Tragedy struck Vancouver as a vehicle rammed into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party, killing nine and injuring several. The incident occurred Saturday night near Fraser Street and 43rd Avenue. Police arrested a 30-year-old local man at the scene, confirming it was not an act of terrorism. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and heartbreak as bodies lay scattered across the street. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the attack, calling it a "car ramming attack." The Filipino community and local leaders expressed profound grief, as investigations into the suspect’s motives continue. (PC: Reuters)