Russia-Ukraine war
Russia says its troops are still observing the 36-hour ceasefire despite artillery attacks by Ukraine’s army. The defense ministry spokesman added that Russian troops have returned fire from Ukrainian forces in self-defense. Ukrainian officials claim that Russian forces keep carrying out strikes against some cities in the country. The brief ceasefire that began on Friday ends at Saturday midnight. The truce was called by President Putin aimed at halting fighting during the Orthodox Christmas which both countries observe. Ukraine's President Zelensky has rejected the truce as a ploy by Russia to bolster its army's defenses. Moscow has repeatedly said it is open to negotiations to end the conflict while Ukraine says Russia must withdraw its forces first.
Yemen rallies
People have flocked to the streets in Yemen, demanding an end to the Saudi-led coalition’s blockade on their country. It was the second day of rallies against the blockade in place by Saudi Arabia and its allies for eight years now. Demonstrators are strongly critical of the international community for its inaction to bring an end to the Saudi war and siege. The conflict has devastated Yemen where the majority of the population relies on humanitarian aid. And, the existing blockade makes it difficult for the Yemenis to have access to basic supplies. The Yemeni demonstrators have called for decisive military action against Saudi Arabia and the UAE to force them to end the siege.
Peru protests
Peruvians hit the streets again, demanding the resignation of President Dina Boluarte who took over from her ousted predecessor Pedro Castillo in December. Protesters blocked roads, threw stones and burnt tires in several cities. In some places, police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd that was trying to barricade main routes. Peru has been in turmoil ever since Castillo was removed from office and arrested for attempting to dissolve Congress to avoid an impeachment. He is now in pre-trial detention over charges of rebellion and conspiracy. Former vice-president Boluarte assumed power shortly after Castillo's removal. She has already rescheduled general elections to minimize public anger. Almost two dozen people have been killed in protests since last month.