London, March 9, 2025 – The iconic London Eye marks its 25th anniversary with grand celebrations, special light displays, and exclusive events. Since its opening in 2000, the Ferris wheel has become a defining feature of the city’s skyline, attracting millions of visitors annually. To commemorate the milestone, the London Eye will feature a stunning light show, interactive exhibits, and discounted tickets for visitors. Special tributes will highlight its history and impact on tourism. As one of the world’s most famous observation wheels, the London Eye continues to be a symbol of innovation and engineering excellence.

On March 7, 2025, the Trump administration announced the cancellation of $400 million in federal grants and contracts awarded to Columbia University, citing the institution's perceived failure to adequately address antisemitic incidents on campus. This decision follows a series of pro-Palestinian demonstrations that reportedly led to harassment of Jewish students. Despite Columbia's efforts to investigate and address these issues, federal authorities deemed the university's actions insufficient. The withdrawal of funds is expected to have significant financial implications for Columbia, which receives approximately $5 billion annually in federal funding. University officials are currently in discussions with the government to restore the grants and have emphasized their commitment to combating antisemitism and ensuring campus safety. 

In early March 2025, violent clashes erupted between Syrian government forces and loyalists of former President Bashar al-Assad in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartous. The conflict, which has claimed over 200 lives—including 100 security personnel and 15 civilians—began after Assad loyalists launched coordinated attacks on military installations. Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa imposed curfews and deployed reinforcements to restore order. Russia and Iran urged de-escalation, while regional powers like Saudi Arabia and Turkey expressed concern. The unrest highlights the fragile security situation in post-Assad Syria as the transitional government struggles to assert control.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed willingness to engage in discussions regarding a temporary ceasefire with Ukraine, contingent upon specific conditions being met. During recent talks between Russian and U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia, Putin indicated that clarity on the framework of a final peace agreement is essential before agreeing to a ceasefire. Additionally, Russia seeks detailed plans on the structure and participating nations of any proposed peacekeeping mission. Moscow has previously opposed the deployment of NATO troops on Ukrainian soil, favoring countries like China, which have maintained a neutral stance in the conflict. These developments come as the U.S. and Ukraine prepare for forthcoming discussions aimed at establishing a framework for peace and initiating a ceasefire.

A recent White House cabinet meeting erupted into a heated confrontation between Elon Musk, leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Musk accused Rubio of insufficient staff reductions at the State Department, dismissing the 1,500 early retirements as inadequate. Rubio retorted, questioning Musk's expectations and highlighting the complexity of such measures. President Trump intervened, praising both officials and emphasizing a balanced approach to government restructuring. This incident underscores the growing internal conflicts over Musk's aggressive cost-cutting initiatives and their impact on federal operations. 

A UK court has convicted three Bulgarian nationals—Katrin Ivanova, Vanya Gaberova, and Tihomir Ivanchev—for espionage on behalf of Russia. The trio, based in London, were part of a spy network led by fugitive Austrian businessman Jan Marsalek. Their operations included surveillance of investigative journalist Christo Grozev and attempts to gather Ukrainian military intelligence. Authorities dismantled the ring in February 2023, uncovering espionage equipment and counterfeit documents. The case highlights growing Russian intelligence operations in Europe, with the convicted individuals now facing up to 14 years in prison.    

India strongly criticized the UK after a pro-Khalistan protester attempted to block External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s convoy in London. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the incident highlights the "license" given to such extremist forces. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India's assessment of the UK’s response depends on the actions taken against the culprits. The UK Foreign Office condemned the breach, calling intimidation “unacceptable.” A viral video shows protesters waving pro-Khalistan flags and police intervening. India has conveyed its "deep concern" over the recurring security threats.

The US is weighing tariffs and banking sanctions on Russia until a peace deal with Ukraine is reached, President Donald Trump said Friday. His statement follows reports of possible sanctions relief to restore US-Russia ties. Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff is in talks with Ukraine, with a meeting planned in Saudi Arabia next week to discuss a ceasefire framework. Trump and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy had tense White House talks on February 28 but resumed negotiations on mineral revenue-sharing. Trump cited Zelenskyy’s letter expressing willingness to negotiate. Critics warn that shifting sanctions policy may impact peace talks.

Eurostar passengers were stranded after services between London St Pancras and Paris Gare du Nord were suspended on Friday due to an unexploded World War II bomb. The device was discovered during track work in St Denis, north of Paris. French authorities launched mine clearance operations, delaying train services indefinitely. A Eurostar spokesperson confirmed that operations would resume once the bomb is safely removed. While WWII-era bombs are frequently found in France, discoveries in urban areas remain rare. Passengers have been advised to check for updates.

An Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jet crashed in Haryana’s Panchkula during a routine training sortie on Friday. The aircraft took off from Ambala airbase before encountering a system malfunction. The pilot safely ejected after steering the jet away from populated areas. The IAF has ordered an inquiry to determine the cause of the accident. No casualties or property damage were reported. Eyewitnesses captured videos of the crash site. Authorities are investigating the wreckage. More details are awaited.