Current Affairs 11 March 2025 | Ukraine-Russia Ceasefire | Mahila Samriddhi Yojana | ISRO Satellite Launch

Ukraine-Russia Ceasefire: 

Ukraine accepted a US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, following a meeting in Saudi Arabia. This comes after a significant drone attack by Ukraine on Moscow, which resulted in three deaths. The US has also lifted the suspension of military aid to Ukraine.

EU Migration Policy: 

The European Union has proposed new measures to accelerate the expulsion of illegal migrants, including the creation of “hubs de retours” outside its borders. This move is aimed at addressing the migration crisis but has been criticized by NGOs.

Trade Tensions: 

US President Donald Trump has threatened to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, escalating trade tensions. He also suggested that Canada should consider becoming the 51st US state to end the trade war. Additionally, tensions with the EU, particularly Ireland, over trade imbalances are ongoing.

China’s Political Meet: 

China concluded a major political meeting with a call for “unrelenting struggle” for the country’s rise, amidst increasing tensions with the US. China announced a 7.2% increase in its defense budget and set an economic growth target of around 5%^.

Burundi Journalist’s Trial: 

The appeal trial of journalist Sandra Muhoza in Burundi has been postponed indefinitely due to a lack of fuel to transport her to court. This has raised concerns about the fairness of the judicial process and the suppression of dissenting voices in the country.

Austria-North Korea Tensions: 

Austria has been scrutinizing a North Korean taekwondo federation based in Vienna, suspecting it of providing funds to the North Korean regime. The federation’s president has been allowed to stay in Austria despite initial attempts to expel him.

Paris SG Advances in Champions League: 

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has qualified for the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League after defeating Liverpool in a penalty shootout.

India’s Livestock Census: 

India has initiated its 21st Livestock Census, which is crucial for policy-making in disease control, breed improvement, and rural livelihoods. The census covers 16 species and 219 breeds of livestock.

Mahila Samriddhi Yojana: 

The newly elected BJP government in Delhi launched the Mahila Samriddhi Yojana to provide financial support to women from economically weaker sections, offering ₹2,500 monthly to each eligible woman.

ISRO Satellite Launch: 

ISRO is set to launch a United States communications satellite using the GSLV, aiming to enable direct smartphone voice calls from space.

Portugal Political Crisis: 

The center-right government in Portugal has collapsed after losing a confidence vote, potentially leading to early elections. The Prime Minister, Luis Montenegro, has resigned amidst allegations of conflict of interest.

France Heatwave Impact: 

France reported over 3,700 heat-related deaths during the summer of 2024, highlighting the severe impact of climate change on public health.

Maradona Trial: 

Four years after Diego Maradona’s death, a trial has begun in Argentina for seven health professionals accused of manslaughter due to alleged negligence in his care.

Volkswagen’s Financial Results: 

Volkswagen reported a significant drop in its annual net profit, attributed to decreased sales in China and increased costs, reflecting the challenges faced by the automotive industry.

Lego’s Financial Performance: 

Lego, the world’s leading toy manufacturer, reported record revenues and profits for 2024, demonstrating strong performance in a challenging market.