Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of deliberately prolonging the conflict by delaying ceasefire agreements. In a recent statement, he noted that despite diplomatic efforts, Russia "stole almost another week, a week of war that only Russia wants." Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's unwavering commitment to defending its sovereignty and criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin's stance on the ceasefire as "highly manipulative," suggesting Putin is reluctant to admit to U.S. President Donald Trump his lack of genuine interest in peace. He also announced a restructuring of Ukraine's armed forces, appointing Andrii Hnatov as the new chief of the general staff, to bolster the nation's defense capabilities.

U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday to discuss a potential resolution to the ongoing Ukraine conflict. This follows positive discussions between U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Putin in Moscow, where a 30-day ceasefire proposal was tentatively agreed upon. The ceasefire aims to facilitate broader negotiations on territorial and security issues. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accepted the proposal, seeking immediate talks post-ceasefire and opposing recognition of Russian-occupied territories. The U.S. has resumed military aid and intelligence-sharing with Kyiv. While challenges remain, this initiative signifies a potential turning point in the three-year conflict.

In Vadodara, a tragic incident unfolded as 20-year-old law student Rakshit Chaurasia, allegedly under the influence, drove a speeding Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus, colliding with multiple two-wheelers. The crash resulted in the immediate death of a woman and left four others seriously injured. CCTV footage prior to the accident shows Chaurasia drinking from a bottle before entering a friend's residence. After spending approximately 45 minutes there, he switched to the driver's seat, taking control of the car. Post-accident, witnesses reported Chaurasia behaving erratically, shouting phrases like "Another round, another round!" and chanting "Om Namah Shivay." He has since been arrested and faces charges including culpable homicide.

A devastating storm system swept across the South and Midwest United States, resulting in at least 36 fatalities and widespread destruction. Missouri was the hardest hit, with twelve deaths reported due to multiple tornadoes. Mississippi experienced six fatalities, while Texas and Arkansas each reported three deaths. In Kansas, a severe dust storm led to a multi-vehicle collision, causing eight fatalities. The National Weather Service issued tornado warnings affecting areas from Wisconsin to Missouri, with tornado watches extending to states including North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The storms caused extensive damage, including destroyed buildings and widespread debris. Authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant and avoid driving through affected areas.

A catastrophic fire erupted at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, North Macedonia, claiming at least 59 lives and injuring 155 others. The blaze ignited around 2:35 am during a performance by the local hip-hop band DNK, when pyrotechnic effects set the flammable ceiling alight. Over 1,500 attendees, predominantly aged between 14 and 24, scrambled toward the venue's sole exit, leading to a deadly stampede. Investigations revealed that the club lacked a valid operating license, implicating high-level corruption. Authorities have detained approximately 20 individuals, including government officials and the club's management. The government has declared a seven-day national mourning period and initiated comprehensive inspections of similar venues to prevent future tragedies.

The United States has initiated significant airstrikes against Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, resulting in at least 53 fatalities, according to the Houthi-run health ministry. This operation, the largest in the Middle East since President Donald Trump assumed office, aims to halt Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, a vital global trade route. In retaliation, Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi vowed to target U.S. vessels, stating, "If they continue their aggression, we will continue the escalation." Iran, the Houthis' main backer, warned the U.S. of severe consequences if threats persist. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the campaign's goal to restore freedom of navigation, asserting it will persist until Houthi attacks cease.

U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin this week to discuss a potential 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. White House special envoy Steve Witkoff, after a recent four-hour meeting with Putin, expressed optimism, stating that Putin "accepts the philosophy of President Trump" and both leaders aim to end the conflict. While Ukraine has agreed to the ceasefire proposal, Russia has raised conditions, leading to concerns about potential delays. The international community awaits the outcome of this pivotal conversation, hoping for progress toward peace.

American podcaster Lex Fridman revealed he fasted for 45 hours before interviewing PM Narendra Modi, calling it a way to reach a "spiritual level." Modi expressed gratitude and explained fasting's deep roots in Indian tradition. He described how the practice enhances perception, heightens awareness, and sharpens senses. "Your ability to observe and perceive becomes stronger," Modi said, emphasizing fasting as a tool for discipline and balance. He also referenced Hinduism as a "way of life," not just rituals. Fridman’s gesture highlighted global interest in India’s ancient traditions.

Authorities fear Indian-American student Sudiksha Konanki, 20, may have drowned after disappearing during a spring break trip in the Dominican Republic. Joshua Riibe, 22, who was last seen with her, claimed they were caught in strong waves, but his conflicting statements led authorities to seize his passport. While Dominican officials suspect drowning, Konanki’s family fears foul play. The FBI and local police are using drones, helicopters, and divers in a massive search. Riibe’s family insists he is cooperating. Konanki’s father has urged a broader investigation as hopes for her safe return fade.

The US deported 261 Venezuelans, including 238 alleged Tren de Aragua gang members, to El Salvador, despite a federal judge's order halting removals. El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, confirming their arrival, posted "Oopsie... Too Late" on social media. Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, citing "irregular warfare" against the US. Venezuela condemned the move, calling it a "racist targeting" of migrants. Rights groups criticized Trump’s use of the 227-year-old law to bypass due process. The deportees were sent to El Salvador’s mega-prison, where they face at least a year in detention.