Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for April 1st, covering the latest developments you need to know.
France's Le Pen: I'm out of the running for the 2027 race, but will fight on
French far-right leader Marine Le Pen said on Monday that a court's decision to bar her from office for misuse of European funds ruled her out of the 2027 presidential election, adding she had no confidence in an appeal being heard before the vote.
"Let's be clear, I am eliminated but in reality its millions of French people whose voices have been eliminated," Le Pen told broadcaster TF1 in an interview.
Le Pen added that if she did successfully overturn Monday's ruling in time, she would run for president.
French far-right leader Marine Le Pen was banned from running for public office for five years after being convicted on Monday of embezzlement, a political watershed that ruled her out of the 2027 presidential race unless she can win an appeal.
The French court's ruling was a catastrophic setback for Le Pen, the National Rally (RN) party chief who has long been one of the most prominent figures in the European far right and who has been the front-runner in opinion polls for the 2027 contest.
The judge who convicted Le Pen of misappropriating European Union funds also gave her a four-year prison sentence - two years of which are suspended and two years to be served under home detention. She received a 100,000-euro ($108,200) fine.
Le Pen, 56, will appeal, her lawyer said, and neither the prison sentence nor the fine will be applied until her appeals are exhausted. But the five-year ban from running for office starts immediately, via a so-called "provisional execution" measure requested by prosecutors.
Le Pen's right-hand man, RN president Jordan Bardella, said: "Today it is not only Marine Le Pen who was unjustly convicted: It was French democracy that was killed".
Trump urges Putin to make deal to end Ukraine war
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his desire for Russian President Vladimir Putin to reach an agreement to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters at the White House on March 31, 2025, Trump emphasized the human toll of the war, citing the loss of at least 2,500 soldiers each week, both Russian and Ukrainian.
"I want to see him make a deal so that we stop Russian soldiers and Ukrainian soldiers, and other people from being killed," Trump stated, underscoring the value of every life lost in the conflict. He also noted that he believes he has the ability to help broker such a deal, expressing hope that Putin would fulfill his commitments to peace.
Trump also discussed the broader international dynamics, criticizing President Joe Biden's handling of the situation, particularly in relation to rare earth negotiations. He pointed out the European approach of securing loans or guarantees for Ukraine, contrasting it with the U.S. response under Biden's leadership.
While Trump reiterated his preference to avoid imposing secondary tariffs on Russian oil, he indicated that he would take action if necessary, reflecting his firm stance on holding Putin accountable. He also speculated that the war's origins could be linked to NATO-related issues, suggesting that a promise not to include Ukraine in the alliance could have prevented the conflict.
South Korea Constitutional Court to rule on Yoon's impeachment on April 4
South Korea’s Constitutional Court will announce its decision on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment on April 4 at 11 a.m. local time (0200 GMT). The court will decide whether to permanently remove Yoon from office or reinstate him after he was impeached by parliament on December 14, 2024. The impeachment followed his controversial declaration of martial law in early December, which critics argued violated his constitutional duties.
Yoon defended his actions, claiming he intended to alert the public about the opposition’s control of parliament and the perceived threats to national stability, rather than impose full military rule. His defense has sparked a bitter political divide, with many in the ruling People Power Party supporting his reinstatement and the opposition calling for his permanent removal.
A ruling in favor of Yoon’s ouster would require a majority of at least six out of the court’s eight justices. If removed, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days, triggering a major political upheaval. Public opinion largely supports his removal, though support has varied since the initial backlash.
The case has drawn comparisons to the 2017 impeachment of President Park Geun-hye, though Yoon’s case remains more contentious. The ruling on April 4 will be pivotal, shaping the future of South Korea’s political landscape and its democratic principles.
Taiwanese fighter jets take off after China announced military drills
China has begun a series of military drills encircling Taiwan, with fighter jets visibly taking off and landing as part of the operation. The exercises, which are expected to increase tensions in the region, come amid growing concerns over China's increasing military presence near the self-governed island.
While details of the drills remain limited, the move is seen as a demonstration of China's resolve over its territorial claims on Taiwan. The island, which Beijing considers part of its territory, has faced escalating military pressure from China in recent months.
These drills come at a time of heightened cross-Strait tensions, with concerns that the growing military activity could lead to further destabilization in the region. Taiwan has responded by closely monitoring the situation and conducting its own military readiness assessments.
Armenia covers up armed provocations with disinformation
On March 31, around 11:10, the Azerbaijan Army positions came under fire from the Armenian armed forces stationed near the Bazarchay settlement in the Garakilsa region.
In recent days, the Armenian side has consistently targeted Azerbaijan Army units with gunfire and attempted reconnaissance over our positions using unmanned aerial vehicles and drones, and now spreading disinformation to hide the provocations.
Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan asserts that Armenia's claims that Azerbaijan Army units fired on the Khanazakh settlement are completely false and baseless.
UK, French and Ukrainian military leadership to meet in coming days, UK says
Military leaders from the UK, France, and Ukraine are set to meet in the coming days to build on the "real momentum" in efforts to enhance Ukraine’s security, a spokesperson for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed on Monday.
The meeting, which aims to "drive forward the next stage of detailed planning," follows a phone call between Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. This conversation took place after a gathering of European nations supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, which occurred last week in Paris. During the meeting, those nations pledged to strengthen Kyiv's military capabilities for long-term security. Both France and the UK also discussed expanding support for a proposed foreign "reassurance force" in case a truce is reached with Russia.
The prime minister's spokesperson noted that the leaders reflected on their visit to Paris and agreed that there was significant momentum in supporting Ukraine’s security in the long run.
In a separate statement, Zelenskiy expressed his appreciation for Britain's efforts in pressuring Russia. “Considerable pressure is required to prevent Russia from escalating the war, especially since Moscow is now openly mocking attempts by our partners to advance the peace agenda,” Zelenskiy said.
SpaceX launches four private astronauts into polar orbit
In a groundbreaking mission, SpaceX has successfully launched four private astronauts into a polar orbit as part of its Fram2 mission. The mission, which is expected to last between three to five days, saw Maltese crypto entrepreneur Chun Wang assume the role of commander.
The Fram2 mission marks another milestone in SpaceX's ongoing efforts to make space travel more accessible to private citizens. The mission is notable not only for its crew but also for its target orbit, a polar trajectory that is less commonly used for commercial spaceflights.
Alongside Wang, the crew includes three other private astronauts, each with varying backgrounds. The journey aims to provide valuable data on the feasibility of such missions, as well as give the crew an unparalleled experience in space.
The mission's success underscores the growing role of private individuals and companies in shaping the future of space exploration. SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of commercial space travel, offering a glimpse of what could become routine space tourism in the years to come.
The King of the Kingdom of Gureshaba, Doku Hmaiai Hippolyte Sinewami Htamumu, has formally applied to join the Baku Initiative Group. The Kingdom of Gureshaba is located on Nenon Island in New Caledonia.
Russia and Ukraine accused each other on Wednesday of violating a U.S.-brokered moratorium on attacks against energy infrastructure, raising fresh concerns over the durability of the limited truce agreed last month as a potential stepping stone toward a full ceasefire.
Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari has tested positive for COVID-19, according to his doctor, Asim Hussain. The 70-year-old leader has been advised to remain in isolation as a precautionary measure, while his condition is reported to be improving.
Samsung has appointed Roh Tae-moon as interim head of its consumer and smartphone unit following the passing of Han Jong-hee. With CEO Jun Young-hyun now solely leading the company, Samsung faces key challenges in its chip business and rising competition.
The upcoming Beatles biopic will be told through four films.
Russia, the world's second-largest oil exporter, on Wednesday imposed restrictions on another major oil export route, suspending a mooring at the Black Sea port of Novorossiisk only a day after restricting loadings from a key Caspian pipeline.
The King of the Kingdom of Gureshaba, Doku Hmaiai Hippolyte Sinewami Htamumu, has formally applied to join the Baku Initiative Group. The Kingdom of Gureshaba is located on Nenon Island in New Caledonia.
Russia and Ukraine accused each other on Wednesday of violating a U.S.-brokered moratorium on attacks against energy infrastructure, raising fresh concerns over the durability of the limited truce agreed last month as a potential stepping stone toward a full ceasefire.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy is traveling to Kosovo and Serbia to strengthen cooperation on security, addressing irregular migration, and combating serious organized crime.
Fresh medical evidence could challenge one of Britain’s most shocking criminal cases as lawyers seek to overturn Lucy Letby’s convictions. With growing scrutiny over the trial’s key findings, the case has sparked debate among experts and the public, raising questions about the safety of the verdict.
Aid groups in Myanmar’s worst-hit areas urgently need shelter, food, and water after a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake killed over 2,700 people. Rescue efforts face challenges due to ongoing civil war, damaged infrastructure, and restricted aid access, with the toll expected to rise.
Russian forces carried out a drone attack on Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, late Wednesday, injuring at least twenty one people and causing structural damage, according to Ukrainian officials.
French far-right leader Marine Le Pen was banned from running for public office for five years after being convicted of embezzlement, ruling her out of the 2027 presidential race. She received a four-year prison sentence, with two years suspended, and a €100,000 fine. Le Pen plans to appeal.
Apple marked its 49th anniversary by reaching a market capitalization of $3.3 trillion. Despite recent tech stock volatility, Apple's shares surged 28% in 2024.
The Armenian armed forces attempted three reconnaissance drone flights over Azerbaijan Army positions near Gerenzur, but all were successfully intercepted. Meanwhile, Armenian units repeatedly fired on Azerbaijani positions from multiple regions, escalating tensions in the area.
Russia and Ukraine accused each other on Wednesday of violating a U.S.-brokered moratorium on attacks against energy infrastructure, raising fresh concerns over the durability of the limited truce agreed last month as a potential stepping stone toward a full ceasefire.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy is traveling to Kosovo and Serbia to strengthen cooperation on security, addressing irregular migration, and combating serious organized crime.
Fresh medical evidence could challenge one of Britain’s most shocking criminal cases as lawyers seek to overturn Lucy Letby’s convictions. With growing scrutiny over the trial’s key findings, the case has sparked debate among experts and the public, raising questions about the safety of the verdict.
Russian billionaire Vadim Moshkovich, founder of Rusagro, faces charges of embezzling 30 billion roubles ($357 million). His arrest is among the most high-profile in Russia’s business world in recent years.
India's government has introduced a bill proposing sweeping reforms in the management of waqf properties, allowing non-Muslim members on waqf boards and enabling the state to determine disputed land ownership, sparking concerns among Muslim groups and opposition lawmakers.
Russia, the world's second-largest oil exporter, on Wednesday imposed restrictions on another major oil export route, suspending a mooring at the Black Sea port of Novorossiisk only a day after restricting loadings from a key Caspian pipeline.
The King of the Kingdom of Gureshaba, Doku Hmaiai Hippolyte Sinewami Htamumu, has formally applied to join the Baku Initiative Group. The Kingdom of Gureshaba is located on Nenon Island in New Caledonia.
Russia and Ukraine accused each other on Wednesday of violating a U.S.-brokered moratorium on attacks against energy infrastructure, raising fresh concerns over the durability of the limited truce agreed last month as a potential stepping stone toward a full ceasefire.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy is traveling to Kosovo and Serbia to strengthen cooperation on security, addressing irregular migration, and combating serious organized crime.
Fresh medical evidence could challenge one of Britain’s most shocking criminal cases as lawyers seek to overturn Lucy Letby’s convictions. With growing scrutiny over the trial’s key findings, the case has sparked debate among experts and the public, raising questions about the safety of the verdict.
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