- Centerstage Events

Pakistan's Jaffar Express rescue operation concluding took centerstage on Thursday, 13 March, 2025 among all major events across the globe, and remains the highlight of this week's list of center stage events.
Picture Courtesy: Profit loss

Centerstage events of week 2

Wall Street plunges as recession fears...

Wall Street plunges as recession fears grow, with all three major U.S. stock indexes suffering sharp declines amid tariff disputes and concerns over a potential federal government shutdown. The S&P 500 drops 8.6% from its recent record high and closes below its 200-day moving average, a key support level. The Nasdaq falls over 10%, confirming a correction. Analysts note investors are pulling back, though economic data has yet to confirm a downturn. Market volatility continues as uncertainty weighs on sentiment.

Sunday, 9 March, 2025

Military chiefs from 30 European and NATO...

Military chiefs from 30 European and NATO countries meet in Paris to discuss a potential peacekeeping mission for Ukraine after a ceasefire with Russia. The closed-door talks, held from March 11-13, take place alongside US and Ukrainian negotiations in Saudi Arabia. Notably, the United States is absent, as European leaders aim to demonstrate self-reliance in post-war security. France and Britain push for a "coalition of the willing" to ensure Ukraine's defense, amid concerns over a potential reduction in US military support under President Donald Trump.

Monday, 10 March, 2025

Yemen’s Houthis announce the resumption...

Yemen’s Houthis announce the resumption of attacks on Israeli ships in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Bab al-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden after their deadline for Israel to allow aid into Gaza expires. The Iran-aligned group warns that any Israeli vessel violating the ban will be targeted. The Houthis had previously disrupted global trade, forcing ships to reroute around Africa, but halted attacks after a Gaza ceasefire in January. Their latest decision raises concerns about renewed instability in a critical maritime region.

Tuesday, 11 March, 2025

Pakistan's Jaffar Express rescue operation concludes...

Pakistan's Jaffar Express rescue operation concludes, with 33 terrorists killed and 30 civilians dead following a hijacking in Balochistan. The army, air force, Frontier Corps, and Special Services Group conducted the mission, rescuing around 100 hostages. Terrorists had bombed a railroad track, stopping the train carrying 440 passengers. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) DG Lt Gen Sharif Chaudhry confirms that the attackers maintained satellite communication with their masterminds in Afghanistan. Authorities declare the clearance operation complete, ensuring no further passenger casualties.

Wednesday, 12 March, 2025

The European Union announces a $5 billion...

The European Union announces a $5 billion (€4.7 billion) investment in South African aid and development projects, following the U.S. withdrawal of USAID programs. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen states the funding will focus on clean energy, boosting wind, solar, and hydrogen power, as well as vaccine manufacturing. At a Cape Town summit, President Cyril Ramaphosa criticizes rising economic nationalism, indirectly referencing Donald Trump’s policies. Von der Leyen emphasizes the EU’s commitment to local job creation, environmental standards, and sustainable partnerships over mere resource extraction.

Thursday, 13 March, 2025

A massive acid spill from...

A massive acid spill from a Chinese-owned copper mine in Zambia has contaminated the Kafue River, the country’s most vital waterway, raising fears of long-term environmental and health risks. The February 18 spill resulted from a tailings dam collapse, releasing 50 million liters of toxic waste, including acid and heavy metals. Pollution has been detected 60 miles downstream, endangering millions of people and wildlife. Environmentalists warn of catastrophic consequences, while President Hakainde Hichilema seeks international expert assistance as Zambia assesses the full impact of the disaster.

Friday, 14 March, 2025

The U.S. deports over 200...

The U.S. deports over 200 Venezuelans alleged to be gang members to El Salvador, despite a court order blocking removals. El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele confirms 238 members of Tren de Aragua and 23 MS-13 members arrived at a supermax prison, posting "Oopsie... Too late" on social media. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denies violating the ruling, stating the deportations occurred before the order took effect. The U.S. and El Salvador have not disclosed detainee identities or criminal records, sparking legal and human rights concerns.

Saturday, 15 March, 2025