EU, Spain brush off Trump tariff threats over Madrid’s defence spending

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October 15, 2025

(Reuters) – The European Commission and Spain’s government on Monday dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest threat to impose higher tariffs on Madrid over its refusal to meet his proposed NATO target for defence spending.

Trump said he was “very unhappy” with Spain for being the only country to reject the new spending objective of 5% of economic output, adding that he was mulling punishing the Mediterranean country. He had previously suggested making Spain “pay twice as much” in trade talks.

Trade policy falls under Brussels’ remit and the Commission would “respond appropriately, as we always do, to any measures taken against one or more of our member states,” Commission spokesperson Olof Gill said in a press briefing.

The trade deal between the European Union and the United States signed in July was the right platform to address any issues, Gill added.

WHAT DO SPAIN AND NATO SAY?

“The defence spending debate is not about increasing spending for the sake of increasing it, but about responding to real threats,” Spain’s Economy and Trade Ministry said in a statement. “We’re doing our part to develop the necessary capabilities and contribute to the collective defence of our allies.”

Spain has more than doubled nominal defence spending from 0.98% of gross domestic product in 2017 to 2% this year, equivalent to about 32.7 billion euros ($38 billion).

Defence Minister Margarita Robles said allies weren’t discussing the 5% target for 2035 in Wednesday’s meeting because they were prioritising the present situation in Ukraine, but wouldn’t completely rule out a shift in Spain’s position.

WHAT COULD WASHINGTON DO?

Targeted tariffs by the U.S. against individual EU member states are rare but there are precedents, Ignacio Garcia Bercero, a senior fellow at the Brussels-based economic think tank Bruegel, said.

In 1999, the U.S. hit the EU with 100% punitive tariffs on products such as chocolate, pork, onions and truffles in retaliation for an EU import ban on hormone-treated beef but excluded Britain, which at the time was still a member of the trade bloc.

The U.S. could impose anti-dumping penalties on European products that are mostly produced in Spain, said Juan Carlos Martinez Lazaro, professor at Madrid’s IE business school.

In 2018, Washington imposed a combination of duties of more than 30% on Spanish black table olives at the request of Californian olive growers. Spain’s share of the U.S. market plummeted from 49% in 2017 to 19% in 2024.

Another option would be moving the naval and air bases the U.S. has in southern Spain to Morocco – an idea floated, opens new tab by former Trump official Robert Greenway – which would damage the local economies through the loss of thousands of indirect jobs.

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IMF says UK should not scrap twice-yearly economic forecasts

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John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

(Reuters) – Britain should not reduce the frequency of its twice-yearly economic forecasts, but a related assessment of the government’s compliance against budget rules should only take place once a year, the International Monetary Fund said on Wednesday.

The British government’s Office for Budget Responsibility currently produces twice-yearly economic and budget forecasts, but there had been some speculation that finance minister Rachel Reeves wanted to reduce them to once a year, to line up with her annual budget.

“The evaluation of compliance with fiscal rules should be annual. … Forecasting should take place twice a year in accordance with international best practice,” IMF fiscal affairs chief Vitor Gaspar said at a press conference.

Reeves has said before that she wants to have just one main budget event a year, but the narrow leeway she left to hit her fiscal goals after her first budget in October 2024 meant she was forced into corrective action in March.

Gaspar’s advice follows similar suggestions made by the IMF in a regular report on Britain’s economy in May.

Reeves is due to present her next annual budget to parliament on November 29, and earlier on Wednesday she acknowledged that she was looking at tax and spending measures.

Some economists expect her to have to raise taxes or make savings of up to 30 billion pounds ($40.1 billion), or 0.9% of national income, a year after a tax hike of 40 billion pounds – the biggest in more than 30 years – that Reeves hoped would wipe the slate clean.

Britain has the highest cost for new government borrowing among the world’s seven largest advanced economies.

Gaspar, who spoke during the IMF and World Bank annual meetings in Washington, said the IMF broadly backed Britain’s budget policy.

“Our view is that the plans that have been put forward by the UK Treasury strike a good balance between providing favourable conditions for growth … and safeguarding fiscal sustainability,” he said.

However, another IMF official, Athanasios Vamvakidis, said on Tuesday that UK-specific worries had played a role in pushing up British bond yields more than those of other countries.

“This is driven by a number of factors. Low productivity, sticky inflation. The market is asking for more details on the fiscal plans in the UK, so yields, as a result, are higher in the UK compared to other advanced economies,” he said.

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Singer Sia’s ex-husband demands $250,000 (Ksh32M) per month in spousal support

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John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

The estranged husband of Australian singer Sia has asked for more than $250,000 (£187,000; A$384,000) per month in spousal support, according to US court documents.

Best known for her hits including Chandelier and Titanium, the pop star – whose full name is Sia Furler – cited “irreconcilable differences” when she filed for divorce from Daniel Bernard in March.

In court documents, Bernard – a former doctor – said he needed the monthly allowance to maintain the “luxurious and upper-class lifestyle” he had enjoyed during the marriage.

He claimed he was “financially dependent on Sia” after he quit his job to run a short-lived medical business with her, the documents said.

In the court filings, Bernard said the couple, who married in December 2022 and have an 18-month-old son, had more than $400,000 in monthly expenses for private jets, holidays, high-end dining and several full-time staff members.

“We never needed to monitor our living expenses,” he wrote.

The 47-year-old said the temporary support order he is seeking was “necessary” because Sia, 49, was “the breadwinner in our marriage”.

A former radiation oncologist, Bernard also said he would need to complete several years of training and pass several rigorous exams before he could renew his certification and practice again.

He also requested additional payments to help cover legal costs and forensic accounting.

Sia’s agents have been contacted for comment.

At least 16 killed after fire breaks out in garment factory in Bangladesh

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

At least 16 people have died after a huge fire broke out at a garment factory in Bangladesh, with officials warning that the toll could rise.

Sixteen bodies have been recovered and would be handed to families after DNA testing, as they have been burnt beyond recognition, the fire service said.

Distraught relatives gathered outside the four-storey factory in Dhaka’s Mirpur area on Tuesday in search of their loved ones still missing.

The blaze, which broke out at the factory around midday, was extinguished after three hours. But an adjacent chemical warehouse continued to burn, authorities said.

Large fires are relatively common in densely populated Bangladesh, often due to lax safety standards and poor infrastructure. Hundreds of people have been killed in fires in recent years.

Up until 21:00 local time (15:00 GMT) on Tuesday, the fire at the chemical warehouse in Mirpurhad not been completely doused, media reports said.

Fire service officials have not ascertained which of the two buildings caught fire first.

According to eyewitnesses, the chemical warehouse stored bleaching powder, plastic and hydrogen peroxide, all of which can intensify fires. Plastic also releases toxic fumes when burned.

Most of the deaths were caused by toxic gas and the building’s roof door being locked, the fire service said.

Fire service director Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury told local media the victims probably died “instantly” after inhaling “highly toxic gas”.

Police and military officers are still trying to locate the owners of the factory and the warehouse, Mr Chowdhury told reporters.

An investigation into whether the warehouse was operating legally was also ongoing, he added.

The fire service said that the chemical warehouse had no fire safety clearance or licence from their department.

Meanwhile, officials in northern Dhaka had confirmed that the warehouse had no occupancy certificate or licence to operate, local media reported.

Tearful family members stood outside the charred buildings, many of them clutching photographs of their missing relatives.

Among them is a man searching desperately for his daughter, Farzana Akhter.

“When I heard about the fire, I came running. But I still haven’t found her… I just want my daughter back,” he told Reuters news agency.

Bangladesh has a long history of deadly industrial disasters.

In 2021, a fire at a food and drink factory left at least 52 people dead and another 20 injured. The factory was built illegally and had no emergency exit, an investigation later found.

In 2019, a fast-moving fire swept through a historic district in Dhaka, killing at least 78 people, including members of a bridal party.

The country’s deadliest industrial accident to date took place in 2013, when the eight-storey Rana Plaza building housing garment factories near Dhaka collapsed owing to a structural failure, killing more than 1,100 people.

Madagascar coup leader Randrianirina says he will be sworn in as president

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

(Reuters) – Madagascar’s new military ruler Michael Randrianirina said on Wednesday he would soon be sworn in as president of the African island nation after a coup he led to oust President Andry Rajoelina.

Rajoelina, who was impeached by lawmakers after fleeing abroad at the weekend, has condemned the takeover and refused to step down despite Gen Z demonstrations demanding his resignation and widespread defections in the security forces.

Randrianirina has told Malagasy citizens that the military has taken power and dissolved all institutions except the lower house of parliament or National Assembly.

“We will be sworn in soon,” the army colonel told a press briefing on Wednesday, a day after the High Constitutional Court invited him to serve as president of the former French colony.

“We took responsibility yesterday.”

Two sources close to him earlier told Reuters he would be sworn in as president in the next day or two.

Randrianirina said on Tuesday that a committee led by the military would rule for up to two years alongside a transitional government before organising new elections.

Randrianirina was a commander in the elite CAPSAT army unit that played a key role in the 2009 coup that brought Rajoelina to power but broke ranks with him last week, urging soldiers not to fire on protesters.

Rajoelina fled Madagascar on Sunday aboard a French military plane, security sources told Reuters. He has said his life was at risk and is now believed to be in Dubai, according to three diplomatic and opposition sources.

The 51-year-old former DJ himself rose to power in a coup in 2009 on the back of youth protests, becoming the world’s youngest head of state at 34. But promises to improve living standards and eradicate corruption were never fulfilled.

Madagascar, where the average age is less than 20, has a population of about 30 million, three-quarters of whom live in poverty. Between its independence in 1960 and 2020, GDP per capita plunged 45%, according to the World Bank.

As well as the CAPSAT unit, the paramilitary gendarmerie and the police have also broken ranks with Rajoelina.

We knew death would come one day but not so soon – Junet mourns Raila’s death

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

Suna East MP Junet Mohamed has now said that even though they knew death would one day come for ODM Party Leader Raila Amolo Odinga, just like for any other human being, no one expected it to happen this soon.

Speaking when he rose on the floor of the National Assembly to contribute to a point of order on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Junet mourned the late former Prime Minister, admitting that he has not yet come to terms with the devastating loss.

He described Raila’s passing as a deep personal blow, saying the ODM fraternity had lost more than a leader; they had lost a father figure and a source of inspiration.

“I am still coming to terms with what has happened. Some of us had a very deep relationship with our leader. We knew death would come one day, but we didn’t expect it now,” Junet said.

Junet, who served as Minority Leader in the 12th Parliament and a close confidant of the late ODM boss, spoke with visible emotion as he reflected on the moments he shared with Raila Odinga.

He said Raila’s mentorship, humility, and unshaken belief in justice had shaped the lives of many leaders across the political divide.

He added that Raila’s passing was a reminder of the inevitability of death, a fate that no one can escape regardless of their power or position.

“We knew death would one day visit us all, but it came too soon for our father, mentor, and friend. We have lost a man whose heart beat for Kenya,” Junet said.

Shock as mourners chant ‘Ruto must go’ at Raila’s Karen home

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

A section of Kenyans who availed themselves at the Karen home of the late ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga caused anxiety after chanting “Ruto Must Go” slogans.

In a viral video clip seen by Uzalendo News on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, the emotional group of youthful mourners can be seen and heard shouting the phrase repeatedly, expressing disbelief and anger following the sudden death of the former Prime Minister.

Some were filmed waving tree branches, while others sat on the ground crying uncontrollably as chants of “Baba! Baba!” filled the air.

The crowd appeared restless, with some expressing suspicion over Raila’s death, which has shaken the nation and sent shockwaves across Africa.

Security officers were later seen calming the crowd outside the Karen residence as leaders continued arriving to condole with Mama Ida Odinga and the family.

ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, speaking to the media outside the Karen home, urged Kenyans to remain calm and honour Raila Odinga’s legacy with dignity.

He said the late ODM leader was a symbol of peace and justice and would not have wanted his death to cause division.

“Raila Odinga was a mentor and father to all.

“We urge Kenyans to mourn peacefully as we work closely with the family and the government to prepare for his final journey,” Sifuna said.

Earlier, President William Ruto officially confirmed Raila’s death during a televised address from State House, Nairobi.

Flanked by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Raila’s elder brother Oburu Oginga, Ruto described the late opposition leader as Kenya’s foremost statesman.

“Fellow citizens, it is with deep sorrow that I inform the nation of the passing of Rt Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, our former Prime Minister and one of Africa’s greatest sons,” Ruto said.

He added, “Kenya, Africa, and the world mourn the passing of a giant of democracy and a tireless warrior of good governance.

“Raila’s name will be forever etched in the story of our republic, a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, rule of law, hope, and our pursuit of excellence.”

President Ruto declared seven days of national mourning and directed that flags fly at half-mast across Kenya and in all embassies abroad.

He urged citizens to unite in this difficult moment and reflect on Raila’s enduring contribution to Kenya’s democracy.

“Don’t Crowd Raila’s Karen Home” – ODM SG Sifuna Pleads

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has urged party supporters to avoid gathering at former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s Karen residence following reports of his passing.

Speaking at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Sifuna said Mama Ida Odinga was overwhelmed by the large number of supporters showing up to offer their condolences.

The Nairobi Senator mentioned that the party was in discussions with various delegations to establish designated mourning centers where those wishing to pay their respects to ‘Baba’ — as Raila was fondly known — could do so without visiting the family home in Karen.

“We know how much you love Mzee, but when we came from Karen home, it has been overrun and overwhelmed. The space can’t accommodate all the number of people who want to condole,” he stated.

“I want to make a special request as ODM SG, our people must stop going to Mama Ida’s house because she’s there alone and overwhelmed. We understand the love, in fact, the discussions amongst the leadership are that we need to set up points for people who want to mourn Raila, it doesn’t have to be Karen.”

Sifuna is part of a delegation comprising government officials, party leaders, and family members set to travel to India to coordinate the repatriation of Raila Odinga’s body.

The delegation, led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, includes Mama Ida Odinga, Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen (Interior) and Hassan Joho (Mining), National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, among others.

This follows a proclamation by President William Ruto, who announced that the Indian government, at Kenya’s request, had agreed to facilitate the repatriation process.

President Ruto further stated that the former Prime Minister will be accorded a state funeral with full honours.

“In consultation with the family, a committee to be co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and my brother, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, has been set up to coordinate the funeral arrangements,” Ruto stated.

Raila died on Wednesday in India, where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed condition.

Reports from the Indian authorities indicated that the former PM was taking a walk with his sister, daughter, and a personal doctor when he collapsed and was rushed to a nearby private hospital, where he passed away.

ODM Breaks Silence After Raila’s Death, Outlines Next Steps For Members

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially broken its silence following the death of its party leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Through a press statement signed by Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and shared on its official X handle, the party encouraged the Odinga family and supporters to remain united and strong during this difficult moment.

“This morning, we have received the dreadful news of the passing of our party leader and icon, the Rt Hon Raila Odinga, in India, while undergoing treatment. The party and the entire country are in deep shock following the news,” read part of the statement.

Sifuna, writing on behalf of the ODM Party, described Raila as “a beacon of hope in a world filled with despair.”

He added that the late former Prime Minister had been Kenya’s leading political figure for at least three decades, nurturing democratic ideals and inspiring generations of leaders.

“The Rt Hon Odinga has been the leading political figure in this nation for at least three decades, at whose feet democratic ideals have been nurtured and political careers grown.

“He will remain a true giant of our nation and a darling in the hearts of Kenyans for his unwavering fight for justice and firm stand on freedom for all,” Sifuna said.

In the heartfelt statement, ODM urged its members and supporters across the country to observe the week in unity and reflection as they mourn their leader.

“While we process this adverse news and await further updates, I urge all party members to observe the week in unity and rally together as we reflect on the life and times of our leader, a man who has been mentor and father to all, hence the moniker, ‘Baba,’” Sifuna added.

He further said the party will work with the family to plan Raila’s funeral arrangements, assuring that regular updates will be shared in due course.

“We shall be providing regular updates in conjunction with the family as Baba’s funeral rites are planned. May Baba’s soul find deserving rest in heaven,” the statement concluded.

Earlier, President William Ruto officially confirmed Raila’s death in a televised address from State House, Nairobi.

Flanked by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Raila’s elder brother, Oburu Oginga, the Head of State declared seven days of national mourning and ordered all flags to fly at half-mast across the country and in all Kenyan missions abroad.

“Fellow citizens, it is with deep sorrow that I inform the nation of the passing of Rt Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, our former Prime Minister and Kenya’s foremost statesman and one of Africa’s greatest sons,” President Ruto said.

He hailed Raila as “a beacon of courage, a tower of principle, and a father of our democracy,” adding that his legacy will forever be remembered in Kenya’s history.

Raila Odinga, who served as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, died aged 80 at an Ayurvedic eye hospital and research centre in Kerala, India.

His passing has plunged the nation into mourning, with thousands of Kenyans gathering at his Karen and Bondo homes to pay their respects.

Siaya County suspends all official business to allow mourning of Raila Odinga

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

The Siaya County Government has announced the suspension of all official functions following the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing the moment as one of profound loss and national grief.

Governor James Orengo said the prevailing circumstances necessitate a review of ongoing county programmes, including the Siaya International Trade and Investment Conference (SITICO 2025), which Mr Odinga was expected to grace.

“The circumstances dictate a review of the ongoing programme of the Siaya International Trade and Investment Conference. As such, all plenary sessions and side events are postponed to a later date as we join the family and the nation in mourning our departed leader. We deeply regret any inconvenience caused,” said Governor Orengo.

President William Ruto has declared seven days of national mourning in honour of the late Odinga and directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast across the country and at all Kenyan missions abroad.

In an emotional tribute, Governor Orengo hailed Raila Odinga as a statesman whose legacy transcends politics.

“Words fail me to express the shock, deep sorrow and immeasurable grief at the news of the untimely passing of my brother, my friend, my party leader — a statesman and a towering figure of Kenya’s second liberation, and the driving force behind the realisation of the 2010 Constitution,” said Orengo.

He added: “Kenya has lost not just a politician, but a revolutionary, a visionary, and a singular force whose shadow stretched across the most consequential five decades of our history. For the people of Siaya, the entire Luo Nyanza region, and the nation as a whole, we have lost our patriarch — the symbol of resilience and a relentless champion of our political and economic rights.”

The county government said further communication on the rescheduled dates for SITICO 2025 and other official engagements will be issued in due course.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has died on Wednesday in the Indian city of Kochi, where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed condition. He was aged 80