Money & Finance

Germany's government unveiled a comprehensive energy reform package aimed at dramatically increasing renewable power generation. The 600-page "Easter package" prioritizes wind and solar energy expansion, streamlining bureaucratic processes and targeting nearly 100% renewable electricity by 2035. This strategic move addresses climate goals and reduces dependence on Russian energy imports.

The United Nations will vote on suspending Russia from the Human Rights Council following the discovery of civilian casualties in Bucha, near Kyiv, sparking international condemnation and calls for accountability.

The United States has launched a fresh wave of financial sanctions against Russia, focusing on President Vladimir Putin's family and blocking two major Russian banks. The move comes in response to alleged war crimes in Ukraine, with the UK and EU expected to follow suit in escalating economic pressure.

Asia is investing over $350 billion in liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, aiming to reduce coal usage. While these projects could help lower emissions, they also risk prolonging fossil fuel dependency and potentially slowing renewable energy adoption.

Guyana has granted ExxonMobil permission to develop its fourth offshore oil field, the $10 billion Yellowtail Project. Expected to produce up to 250,000 barrels per day, the project will come onstream by 2025, adding to the company's existing Liza and Payara fields.

The United States plans to seek Russia's suspension from the UN Human Rights Council after reports of potential war crimes in Ukraine. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield cited evidence of violence against civilians in Bucha, near Kyiv, calling for Russia to be held accountable for its actions during the ongoing conflict.

The World Health Organization reports that nearly everyone worldwide breathes air failing its quality standards, highlighting severe health risks from pollutants that cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems, leading to millions of preventable deaths annually.

Lithuania becomes first EU nation to fully stop Russian gas imports, declaring energy independence from Moscow amid Ukraine conflict. Energy ministry confirms complete cessation of Russian gas supplies, marking significant geopolitical stance against Russian energy pressure.

Dmitry Rogozin, head of Roscosmos, warns that international sanctions may disrupt Russian spacecraft cargo and manned missions to the ISS, potentially threatening the station's continued collaborative functionality between Russia and Western space agencies.

Eurozone consumer prices surged to a record 7.5% in March, marking the highest inflation rate since 1997. Rising energy and food costs, fueled by the conflict in Ukraine, are squeezing household budgets and forcing central banks to consider aggressive monetary policy responses.