1. U.S. Imposes Sweeping Tariffs; China Retaliates
On April 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a universal 10% tariff on all imports, with a dramatic increase to 125% specifically targeting Chinese goods, citing unfair trade practices. In response, China imposed retaliatory tariffs of 84% on U.S. products, significantly escalating tensions and raising concerns of a global trade war. The European Union also weighed in by introducing 25% duties on select American goods.
2. Bank of England Warns of Economic Risks from U.S. Tariffs
The Bank of England expressed serious concern over the UK’s economic exposure to the fallout from the U.S. tariffs. The Financial Policy Committee warned of potential financial instability and heightened market volatility, stressing the risks for a globally interconnected economy like the UK’s.
3. Severe Weather Devastates Southern and Midwestern U.S.
From April 2 to April 7, a slow-moving weather system unleashed a wave of tornadoes and flash floods across the Southern and Midwestern United States. Kentucky experienced historic flooding, with the Kentucky River cresting at a record 48.27 feet in Frankfort. Multiple fatalities were reported, and thousands were displaced as a result of the widespread destruction.
4. Deadly Wildfires Ravage Central and Southern South Korea
Since March 21, more than 20 wildfires have torn through regions of central and southern South Korea, claiming 32 lives and displacing over 37,000 people. The Uiseong County fire, reportedly sparked by a grave site maintenance accident, has been particularly devastating. Several provinces have now been declared disaster zones by local authorities.
5. SpaceX’s Fram2 Mission Reaches Historic Polar Orbit
On April 1, SpaceX successfully launched the Fram2 mission, achieving the first-ever crewed flight into a polar retrograde orbit. The mission featured an all-civilian crew conducting 22 scientific experiments, including the first x-ray captured in space and research into mushroom cultivation in microgravity conditions.
6. New Japan Pro-Wrestling Hosts Sakura Genesis 2025
On April 5, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) held its annual flagship event, Sakura Genesis, at the iconic Ryōgoku Kokugikan in Tokyo. In the main event, Hirooki Goto defended his IWGP World Heavyweight Championship title against New Japan Cup winner David Finlay, drawing global attention from pro-wrestling fans.
7. World Health Day 2025 Highlights Maternal and Newborn Health
April 7 marked the observance of World Health Day, with this year’s theme, “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures,” focusing on maternal and newborn care. The World Health Organization (WHO) used the occasion to spotlight critical health challenges worldwide and call for stronger healthcare systems to support women and infants.
8. Fatal Bus Accidents in Brazil Spark Safety Concerns
Two tragic bus crashes shook Brazil this week. On April 4, a bus carrying students and faculty from the Federal University of Santa Maria crashed in Imigrante, Rio Grande do Sul, resulting in seven fatalities. A second accident occurred on April 8 in Araguari, Minas Gerais, killing 11 people. These back-to-back incidents have reignited debates about road safety and transport infrastructure in the country.
9. Emperor and Empress of Japan Visit Iwo Jima
On April 7, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako visited Iwo Jima to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the historic World War II battle. Their visit marked the first appearance by Japanese royalty on the island since 1994, offering a solemn tribute to those who lost their lives in one of the Pacific War’s most significant and tragic conflicts.
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