Trump Threatens Russia with Tariffs Over Ukraine War

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March 31, 2025

Written By Faith Mwende

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, warning of harsh economic measures if Moscow does not agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine.

In an NBC News interview, Trump said he was “very angry” and “pissed off” over Putin’s remarks questioning Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s credibility. He threatened secondary tariffs of up to 50% on countries purchasing Russian oil if a peace deal is not reached.

“If Russia and I can’t reach a deal to stop the bloodshed, and if I determine its Russia’s fault which it might not be I will impose tariffs on all Russian oil,” Trump said.

His comments mark a sharp shift in tone, as he previously pressured Zelensky for concessions while appearing lenient toward Putin. European leaders had feared Trump was cosying up to Moscow, but this threat puts the pressure back on Russia.

Zelensky responded on social media, warning that Putin is stalling the war just as he did in 2014 with Crimea. “There must be a strong response from the U.S., Europe, and global partners,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Trump also reiterated his willingness to bomb Iran if it refuses to negotiate a new nuclear deal, promising a strike of “unprecedented scale.” Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian responded by saying direct talks were off the table but hinted at possible indirect negotiations.

Kenyan Government Issues Safety Advisory After Myanmar-Thailand Earthquake

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Gerald Gekara

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March 31, 2025

The Government of Kenya has issued an urgent safety advisory for its citizens in Myanmar and Thailand following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the two countries.

The disaster has caused widespread destruction, with thousands feared dead or injured.

In a statement released on March 31, 2025, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Kathure Njogu, expressed deep concern for all those affected.

“We stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar and Thailand during this difficult time,” she said.

Kenyans in the affected regions have been urged to remain alert, monitor local updates, and avoid heavily impacted areas.

Those in damaged or unstable buildings have been advised to move to safe, open areas and watch out for aftershocks, falling debris, and landslides.

The government is also calling on all Kenyans in Myanmar and Thailand to register with the Kenyan Embassy in Bangkok or the nearest East African Community diplomatic mission to receive assistance. The embassy can be reached via hotline (+66990745752) or email (bangkok@mfa.go.ke).

Kenyans have also been urged to follow local authorities’ instructions on evacuations and shelter advisories.

Additionally, citizens are encouraged to check on fellow Kenyans, particularly students, workers, and vulnerable individuals, to ensure their safety.

The Kenyan government is closely monitoring the situation and has provided emergency contact details for further assistance: SDDA Emergency Hotline (+254114757002) and consular email (consular@diaspora.go.ke).

Authorities have assured citizens that they remain committed to supporting Kenyans in the disaster-stricken regions.

KDF Takes Over Stalled Ol’Kalou Stadium Project After Presidential Directive

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Gerald Gekara

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March 31, 2025

Nyandarua residents are still waiting for the long-delayed completion of Ol’Kalou Stadium, but a recent government intervention may finally get the project back on track.

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is set to take over construction, following a presidential directive requested by Governor Moses Kiarie Badilisha.

A joint inspection of the site was conducted by Governor Badilisha, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano, and Principal Secretary for Defence Patrick Mariru.

The move comes after President William Ruto, during his last visit to Nyandarua, promised to help complete the stadium, which has remained unfinished for over seven years.

The facility, intended to be the county’s main sports arena, has been plagued by delays since its construction began. In 2023, Governor Badilisha announced an agreement with Sports Kenya to revive the project, but little progress has been seen.

The previous contractor had been working on the track, pitch, and drainage system but abruptly abandoned the site due to financial constraints.

The contract was awarded during the final months of the former governor’s tenure, leaving uncertainty about its continuation.

President Ruto had assured residents that the contractor would be back on-site within a month, but this did not materialize. Now, with KDF stepping in, locals hope the stadium will finally be completed.

Myanmar Earthquake—700 Muslims Died During Friday Prayers

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Gerald Gekara

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March 31, 2025

Myanmar is reeling from the devastation of a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the country on Friday, killing more than 1,700 people and injuring thousands more.

Among the worst-hit were worshipers gathered for Friday prayers during the holy month of Ramadan, with a Myanmar Muslim organization reporting that over 700 people died inside mosques.

According to Tun Kyi, a member of the Spring Revolution Myanmar Muslim Network, at least 60 mosques were damaged or destroyed in the quake, many of them older buildings that were highly vulnerable to seismic activity.

Videos posted by The Irrawaddy online news site showed mosques collapsing and terrified worshipers fleeing for safety.

The country’s military-led government confirmed on Monday that the official death toll had risen to at least 1,700, with 3,400 people injured and over 300 still missing.

However, the true number of casualties is feared to be much higher, as telecommunications outages and blocked roads have made it difficult to assess the full extent of the destruction.

“We’re really not clear on the scale of the destruction at this stage,” said Lauren Ellery, deputy director of programs in Myanmar for the International Rescue Committee.

Six regions have been placed under a state of emergency as aid workers scramble to provide emergency medical care, humanitarian supplies, and other forms of assistance.

The quake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, and caused widespread damage, including in the capital, Naypyidaw.

The country’s military has been leading rescue and recovery operations, but international organizations warn that many affected areas remain inaccessible.

With the crisis still unfolding, humanitarian groups are calling for urgent aid to reach those affected by one of Myanmar’s deadliest natural disasters in recent history.

Marine Le Pen Found Guilty of Misappropriating EU Funds

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Gerald Gekara

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March 31, 2025

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has been found guilty of misappropriating European funds to finance her National Rally (RN) party.

The verdict, delivered in a Paris court, comes as a major blow to her political ambitions, particularly ahead of the 2027 presidential race.

The judge has yet to announce the sentence, but prosecutors had previously recommended a €300,000 (£250,000) fine, a prison term, and, crucially, a five-year ban from running for public office.

If enforced immediately, the ruling would effectively derail Le Pen’s bid for the presidency.

The case revolves around allegations that Le Pen and other RN members misused European Parliament funds by falsely declaring party staff as EU parliamentary assistants.

Investigations into the matter began years ago, leading to a high-profile trial that has now culminated in her conviction.

Le Pen is widely expected to appeal, which could delay the final outcome. However, if the court upholds the ineligibility ruling without suspension, it would significantly reshape France’s political landscape, potentially boosting President Emmanuel Macron’s allies or other opposition figures ahead of 2027.

The reading of the full verdict is expected to take up to two hours, with political observers closely watching the implications for France’s future.

Manchester City’s FA Cup Win Overshadowed by Haaland Injury Scare

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Gerald Gekara

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March 31, 2025

Manchester City’s FA Cup quarter-final victory over Bournemouth was dampened by an injury scare to Erling Haaland, raising concerns ahead of key fixtures.

Haaland, who missed a penalty in the 13th minute, redeemed himself early in the second half by scoring his 30th goal of the season. However, his afternoon ended prematurely after his left foot was caught under a challenge from Bournemouth captain Lewis Cook.

The striker initially attempted to continue but soon signaled to the bench that he needed to come off. He was replaced by Omar Marmoush, who went on to score City’s winning goal.

Haaland was later seen leaving the stadium on crutches with a protective boot, and manager Pep Guardiola admitted uncertainty about the extent of the injury. Medical tests in the coming days will determine his availability for upcoming matches against Leicester and Manchester United.

Meanwhile, Oscar Bobb, who has been sidelined all season with a broken leg, is back in training and participated in a friendly match. Guardiola remains hopeful that the Norwegian winger will return before the end of the season.

City fans now await updates on Haaland’s condition, hoping their star striker makes a swift recovery.

Mystery as GSU Officer Buried at Migori Church in Strange Circumstances

By

Gerald Gekara

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March 31, 2025

Police in Migori County are investigating a bizarre case in which a General Service Unit (GSU) officer was buried at a church compound in Kamagambo under suspicious circumstances.

Constable Dan Ayoo Obura, stationed at the GSU headquarters in Nairobi, fell ill on March 27 while at home. His wife claims she was taking him to a local church in Opapo village for prayers, but he died on the way.

Upon arrival at the church around 8 pm, members reportedly decided to bury him within the church compound the following day, citing religious customs.

The burial was authorized by a local assistant chief, who unknowingly issued a burial permit without knowledge of the unusual location.

However, concerns have been raised by another family member, who told police that Obura had been deeply involved with the church and that his father had previously raised concerns about radicalization linked to the institution.

Authorities are now considering exhuming the body to conduct an autopsy and determine the cause of death. A court order may be sought if necessary.

“This is an active investigation, and we are working to establish if there was any foul play,” said a police source.

Residents have expressed shock over the incident, with some questioning the church’s practices and the circumstances leading to Obura’s death. Police have assured the public that they will leave no stone unturned in their probe.

Miracle in Meru: Pastor Survives Bullet After It Hits His Bible

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Gerald Gekara

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March 31, 2025

Meru County was left in awe after a pastor narrowly escaped death in what he describes as a divine miracle. Pastor Stephen Kiathia of Neema Christian Church in Tigania was attacked by armed robbers just meters from his church after a service, but a bullet meant for him was stopped by his Bible.

Speaking to TV47, Pastor Kiathia recounted the chilling moment when the attackers struck. “This is the work of God. The bullet was fired, but my Bible, which was on the dashboard near the steering wheel, stopped it. It went through the Bible, near the Book of Revelation, and exited through the windscreen.”

In addition to the gunman, a second assailant wielding a machete attempted to strike him. “The one with the panga raised it and demanded money. As I reached into my pocket, I raised my hand to shield my head, and the blade cut me on the hand instead,” he said, showing his bandaged wound.

Religious leaders in the area have expressed growing concern over rising attacks on churches, with criminals increasingly targeting places of worship and stealing equipment.

“Makanisa nimesimamia yamevunjwa na vitu kuibwa, kama speakers na mixers,” said Rev. Morris Lichoro.

The clergy are now calling on both national and county governments to intervene and strengthen security measures to prevent further attacks.

“We appeal to authorities to take action and ensure safety for places of worship,” Rev. Lichoro urged.

Murang’a Politician’s Car Vandalized in Suspected Political Intimidation

By

Gerald Gekara

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March 31, 2025

There was drama in Murang’a County on Sunday, March 30, 2025, after a group of unidentified goons attacked and vandalized the vehicle of Kariara Ward MCA, Hon. Gichobe Mbatia, during a church service at Mwagu AIPCA Church.

Mbatia escaped unhurt, but his black SUV was severely damaged, with the windshield completely shattered and some windows appearing to have been slashed with a sharp object.

The attack, which shocked locals, has raised concerns over escalating political tensions in the area.

Shortly after the incident, speculation emerged that a sitting Member of Parliament could be behind the attack, as the perpetrators did not physically confront the MCA, suggesting an intimidation tactic rather than a direct assault.

The attack is believed to be politically motivated, as Mbatia has been associating with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has been mobilizing support in Mount Kenya.
In January 2025, Mbatia attended a meeting at Gachagua’s Wamunyoro residence, where the impeached DP hinted at a new political formation.

While investigations into the attack are ongoing, locals fear the incident may signal growing political divisions in the region ahead of the 2027 general elections. Security agencies are expected to take action to prevent further tensions.

President Ruto Faces The Mountain: 5-Day Tour Set To Begin

By

Gerald Gekara

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March 31, 2025

President William Ruto is set to begin a five-day working tour of Central Kenya from April 1st to April 5th, 2025.

The tour will focus on commissioning completed projects, inspecting ongoing ones, and launching new initiatives under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

Covering nine counties—Laikipia, Nyeri, Meru, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Murang’a, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and Kiambu—the visit highlights the government’s commitment to infrastructure, housing, electricity, water, and industrial development.

Among the key projects, the President will issue title deeds in Kieni (Nyeri) and Tigania West (Meru), inspect the County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPS) in Laikipia West and Githunguri (Kiambu), and assess progress on the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Maragua, Murang’a County.

The government has invested Ksh 500 million in 47 CAIPS nationwide, with counties co-funding the projects.

Additionally, six SEZs are under construction in Dongo Kundu, Sagana, Thika, Naivasha, Eldoret, and Nasewa to enhance manufacturing and value addition.

President Ruto will also evaluate water and sanitation projects in Igembe South (Meru), Maragua (Murang’a), and Mbeere North (Embu), while also touring livestock feedlots in Tigania West and South Imenti aimed at boosting meat exports.

Infrastructure development remains a priority, with the President set to inspect affordable housing projects in Laikipia East, Ol Kalou, Kinangop, Kandara, Maragua, and Nyeri Town.

He will also visit modern fresh produce markets in Kieni, Laikipia East, Igembe South, Tigania East, Kirinyaga Central, and Chuka Igambang’ombe.

The tour underscores the government’s dedication to economic growth, employment creation, and improving livelihoods through strategic investments in key sectors.

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