Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Surpasses 3,000 Amid Civil War

This news wrap outlines critical developments including the rising death toll in Myanmar post-earthquake, political tensions in Gaza, Danish opposition to U.S. territorial ambitions, and the dismissal of corruption charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams. Furthermore, Boeing faces scrutiny over safety issues, and the death of actor Val Kilmer is noted.

In Myanmar, the devastating earthquake’s death toll now exceeds 3,000, with ongoing relief efforts hindered by the civil war. The ruling military has announced a temporary cease-fire for aid, lasting until late April, yet retains the right to defend itself amid ongoing recoveries from the 7.7-magnitude quake. Meanwhile, neighboring countries like China and India have deployed rescue teams as hopes for survival continue to fade.

Indian rescuer Kavita Singh noted, “There is zero possibility of finding survivors. It is the fifth or sixth day after the earthquake, and the weather is extremely hot. We have only recovered bodies so far.” In response to the crisis, the United States sent a three-person team and pledged $2 million in emergency aid, although Democratic senators have criticized the U.S. aid response as lacking.

In the Middle East, Israeli leaders announced their intention to create a new security corridor across Gaza, referred to as the Morag Corridor. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated this corridor would connect the cities of Rafah and Khan Yunis. Local hospitals report that recent Israeli strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 40 Palestinians, including numerous children, while the U.N. states that evacuation orders have restricted access for over 60 percent of Gaza’s residents.

During a visit to Nuuk, Denmark, the Danish prime minister opposed President Trump’s ambition to annex Greenland, emphasizing the territory’s autonomy. This protest follows Vice President J.D. Vance’s remarks regarding Denmark’s investments in Greenland.

In U.S. political news, a senior Russian negotiator, Kirill Dmitriev, visited the White House to discuss the cease-fire efforts in Ukraine, marking the highest-ranking Russian official to do so since the 2022 invasion. Meanwhile, a federal judge dismissed corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams “with prejudice,” preventing the case from being refiled. Adams proclaimed, “This case should have never been brought. I did nothing wrong,” celebrating the decision outside the mayoral mansion.

Boeing’s CEO admitted to making significant errors amidst scrutiny over safety practices following previous defects. During a Senate hearing, Kelly Ortberg stated, “We can’t just fix the defects. We have to get to root cause and make sure the defects go away. I’m not pressuring the team to go fast. I’m pressuring the team to do it right.”

On Wall Street, stocks experienced gains ahead of President Trump’s tariff announcement, with the Dow Jones climbing over 230 points. Furthermore, Val Kilmer, the esteemed actor renowned for his roles in “Top Gun” and “Batman Forever,” passed away at the age of 65 due to complications from pneumonia, following a long battle with cancer. His remarkable career included a deep immersion in his roles, earning respect from peers such as Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman.

The report highlights the ongoing crisis in Myanmar following the earthquake, with a rising death toll and impeded relief efforts due to civil strife. Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions are underscored by Israeli actions in Gaza, and ongoing political dynamics involve U.S.-Russia engagements and local legislative actions in the U.S. Additionally, Boeing faces scrutiny concerning safety practices, while the entertainment world mourns the loss of Val Kilmer.

Original Source: www.pbs.org