Madagascar’s president says illegal power grab by military is under way

In Madagascar, tensions are rising as soldiers from an army unit have openly supported youth-led anti-government protests, which the president has labeled a coup attempt. This situation is significant as it highlights the growing discontent among the youth and military's involvement in political matters, raising concerns about stability in the region.

China has accused the United States of double standards regarding a potential 100% tariff on Chinese imports. This accusation comes as Beijing warns it may implement countermeasures in response to the US's trade threats. The situation is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions between the two economic giants, which could impact global trade dynamics and economic stability.

In Madagascar, a troubling situation is unfolding as an army unit has announced it has seized control of the military command, claiming authority over all armed forces. This power grab raises serious concerns about the stability of the nation and the potential for escalating conflict. The implications of such a move could affect not only the political landscape in Madagascar but also its relationships with neighboring countries and international partners.

Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has raised alarms about a potential coup attempt after soldiers defied orders to suppress ongoing protests. This situation is significant as it highlights the growing unrest in the country, where citizens have been rallying for change. The president's warning underscores the fragile political climate and the risks of escalating violence, which could further destabilize the region.

Nobel Prize winner Maria Machado has voiced strong criticism of Venezuela's current regime, describing the situation in the country as 'chaos.' She argues that the president lacks legitimacy and is calling for his removal. This matters because it highlights the ongoing political turmoil in Venezuela and the challenges faced by the opposition in their fight for democracy.

In a significant turn of events, soldiers in Madagascar have joined youth-led antigovernment protesters in Antananarivo's May 13 Square, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing demonstrations that began last month. This solidarity between military personnel and civilians highlights the growing discontent with the current government and underscores the urgency for change. The participation of soldiers could potentially amplify the movement's impact, drawing more attention to the protesters' demands for reform and accountability.

In a significant turn of events, soldiers from Madagascar's elite Capsat unit have joined thousands of protesters in the capital, Antananarivo, against the president. This move, which saw soldiers marching alongside demonstrators and vowing not to fire on the crowds, has sparked a wave of hope among citizens seeking change. The prime minister has called for calm, but the unity between the military and the people highlights a growing discontent with the current leadership. This development is crucial as it may signal a shift in power dynamics in Madagascar.

In a remarkable show of solidarity, soldiers in Madagascar have joined youth-led protests in Antananarivo, standing against police violence. After police deployed stun grenades and tear gas, these soldiers declared they would not follow orders to shoot demonstrators, receiving cheers from the crowd. This act of defiance highlights a growing movement for change in Madagascar, as citizens and military personnel unite for their rights and safety.

Intensive Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon have resulted in one death and seven injuries, prompting condemnation from the Lebanese president, who labeled the attack on Msayleh as a 'blatant aggression' against civilian infrastructure. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and raises concerns about the safety of civilians amidst military actions.

Tbilisi's mayor, Kakha Kaladze, has made serious allegations against Western ambassadors, claiming they are inciting violence amid protests following recent municipal elections. This accusation highlights the growing tensions in Georgia and raises concerns about foreign influence in the country's political landscape. The situation is significant as it reflects the delicate balance Georgia must maintain between Western alliances and internal stability.

In a recent address, King Mohammed VI of Morocco called on elected officials to address social injustices, echoing concerns raised by the youth-led Gen Z protests that have been ongoing for nearly two weeks. While he did not directly mention the protests, his remarks highlight the urgent need for governance reforms to tackle the issues affecting the younger generation. This is significant as it reflects the growing discontent among youth and the demand for accountability from their leaders.

This week, the world witnessed significant events captured through the lens of top photojournalists, including the Gaza ceasefire deal, Russian strikes on Kyiv, and protests in Madagascar. Additionally, Paris Fashion Week showcased the latest trends. These images not only document current affairs but also highlight the diverse experiences and emotions around the globe, reminding us of the power of visual storytelling in understanding our world.

Today's matchday features exciting clashes in the Women's Super League, including Arsenal taking on Brighton and Liverpool facing Manchester City at Anfield. This is a significant day for Gareth Taylor, who aims to make a statement against his former club after being sacked by City earlier this year. The outcomes of these matches could have important implications for the league standings and team morale, making it a must-watch for fans.

The Women's Cricket World Cup match between Australia and India is generating excitement as it unfolds in Visakhapatnam. With India hosting the event, there's a palpable sense of pressure on the home team to perform well. Fans are eager to see how both teams will handle the expectations and challenges of this crucial game, making it a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts.

The recent deal between Israel and Hamas marks a significant step towards peace in the region, focusing on the release of all living hostages held by Hamas. This agreement is crucial as it not only aims to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza but also opens the door for further negotiations. The successful implementation of this plan could lead to a more stable environment and foster hope for future resolutions.

This weekend saw a blend of events captured in stunning photographs, including a vibrant regatta and the poignant return of Palestinians to their homeland. The images reflect a diverse range of human experiences, from celebration to protest, highlighting the complexities of current global issues. Such visual storytelling is important as it connects audiences to the realities faced by different communities, fostering understanding and empathy.

Jade's recent performance at the Brighton Centre has captivated fans, showcasing her unique style and talent as she moves beyond her Little Mix roots. The concert, filled with synth-driven tracks from her debut album, highlights her quirky persona and unfiltered artistry. This shift is significant as it marks a departure from the typical paths taken by former reality show contestants, proving that Jade can carve out her own niche in the music industry.

In a significant development, all 20 hostages held by Hamas are set to be released early Monday morning, according to Israeli officials. This announcement comes as U.S. Vice President JD Vance indicated that the release could happen at any moment, with former President Donald Trump expected to greet the hostages upon their return. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed readiness to receive the hostages immediately, highlighting the urgency and importance of this situation. The release is seen as a crucial step towards peace, especially with a summit planned in Egypt.