RT

US counterterrorism chief resigns in protest over Iran war

3/17/2026, 5:03:14 PM

The director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, has resigned in protest over Washington's military campaign against Iran, declaring that the war "serves no benefit to the American people." His departure marks a rare and senior act of public dissent within the US national security establishment. The resignation adds to growing internal pressure over the strategic rationale and direction of the conflict.

From Condor dreams to imported rockets: Why did South America never become a missile power?

3/17/2026, 4:19:15 PM

Argentina and Brazil once harboured ambitious ballistic missile programmes — most notably Argentina's Condor II project — but sustained political pressure from the United States and international non-proliferation regimes forced both countries to abandon their indigenous efforts. The article traces how Cold War-era ambitions gave way to disarmament commitments and, ultimately, dependence on imported rocket technology. South America's trajectory stands as a case study in how external political pressure can redirect a region's military-technological aspirations.

Belgian PM blasted for calling to normalize ties with Russia

3/17/2026, 3:54:57 PM

Belgium's prime minister has drawn sharp criticism from European Union officials after publicly advocating for the bloc to normalize its relations with Russia. The call runs counter to the EU's dominant stance of sustained pressure and sanctions on Moscow over its war in Ukraine. The remarks have reignited divisions within the EU over how to handle long-term engagement with Russia.

Nazis honored in EU country’s capital

3/17/2026, 3:53:58 PM

A march honoring Latvian soldiers who served in the Waffen SS, the military wing of Nazi Germany's SS, was held in Riga on March 16. The annual event is deeply controversial, drawing condemnation from Jewish groups, Russia and human rights organizations who see it as a glorification of Nazi collaboration. Latvia maintains that the soldiers were conscripted defenders of the nation against Soviet occupation, a framing widely disputed internationally.

Namibia determined to deepen ties with Russia – president

3/17/2026, 2:58:55 PM

Namibia's president has reaffirmed the country's commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Russia, following talks with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Trutnev. The two sides discussed concrete plans for cooperation across various sectors. The meeting signals Namibia's continued alignment with Moscow amid broader geopolitical realignments on the African continent.

Senior EU official rebukes Zelensky over Orban threat

3/17/2026, 2:41:24 PM

European Council President Antonio Costa has publicly rebuked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following a threat Zelensky directed at Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The rebuke signals growing unease within EU institutions over Kyiv's rhetoric toward a key — if deeply contentious — member state. The incident further strains the already fraught relationship between Ukraine and Hungary amid ongoing war diplomacy.

Epstein-linked US mogul lectures on Antichrist on Vatican doorstep

3/17/2026, 2:26:27 PM

Silicon Valley billionaire Peter Thiel is delivering lectures on the Antichrist at a venue near the Vatican, drawing fresh attention to his controversial persona. The events come amid renewed scrutiny over Thiel's past ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The juxtaposition of the religious venue and his Epstein connections has sparked significant public commentary.

US general overseeing Ukraine lost secret maps, drank to concussion – probe

3/17/2026, 2:04:45 PM

A US general responsible for overseeing military support to Ukraine allegedly left classified maps on a train and suffered a concussion following excessive alcohol consumption, according to an investigation. The findings raise serious concerns about the conduct and judgment of senior American officers involved in the Ukraine war effort. The probe adds to scrutiny of US military leadership amid the ongoing conflict.

Russia under attack by 56 nations in spy war – security chief

3/17/2026, 1:57:48 PM

Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu has accused 56 Western nations of conducting a coordinated sabotage and espionage campaign against Russia. Shoigu's remarks represent Moscow's most sweeping public indictment yet of alleged covert Western hostility, framing it as an undeclared war. The accusation comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and the West over the conflict in Ukraine.

Spanish king acknowledges ‘much abuse’ during Americas conquest

3/17/2026, 1:53:11 PM

King Felipe VI of Spain has acknowledged that the Spanish conquest of the Americas involved "much abuse," marking a notable shift in royal rhetoric on the colonial period. However, he stopped short of issuing a formal apology, drawing continued scrutiny over Spain's handling of its colonial legacy. The statement comes amid longstanding diplomatic tensions with Latin American nations, particularly Mexico, over demands for recognition and reparations.

The Strait of Hormuz crisis: Why the US may be heading toward a strategic disaster

3/17/2026, 1:28:32 PM

A new analysis warns that while US forces could theoretically seize a strategically vital Iranian island in the Strait of Hormuz, doing so would trigger a cascade of unintended consequences rather than resolve the conflict. The piece argues that Washington risks repeating the strategic miscalculations seen in past Middle East interventions. Far from securing victory, such a move could deepen the US military and diplomatic quagmire in the region.

South Africa has no reason to cut ties with Iran – official

3/17/2026, 1:18:07 PM

South Africa's Foreign Ministry Director-General Zane Dangor has firmly rejected US calls to cut diplomatic ties with Iran, saying Pretoria sees no justification for such a step. The statement signals South Africa's resistance to Washington's efforts to isolate Tehran amid the ongoing military conflict. The stance underscores the broader reluctance among Global South nations to align with the US-led pressure campaign against Iran.

EU will ‘inevitably beg for more Russian gas’ – Putin envoy

3/17/2026, 12:44:08 PM

Kirill Dmitriev, a key envoy of President Vladimir Putin, has claimed that European Union gas prices will rise by 100% more than previously forecast, forcing the bloc to eventually return to Russian energy supplies. Dmitriev argued that Europe's energy alternatives cannot compensate for the loss of cheap Russian gas. The statement reflects Moscow's ongoing effort to use energy leverage as a diplomatic pressure tool against the EU.

US push to build Iran coalition turning into ‘mess’ – Axios

3/17/2026, 10:45:24 AM

President Donald Trump's efforts to assemble an international coalition against Iran have devolved into a "mess," according to a report by Axios. The initiative has been beset by coordination failures and disagreements among potential partners, undermining Washington's broader strategy toward Tehran. The report highlights the diplomatic challenges facing the Trump administration as it seeks to build unified pressure on Iran.

Moscow confirms next Russia-Africa summit

3/17/2026, 10:10:57 AM

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has confirmed that the third Russia-Africa Summit will be held in autumn 2026. The announcement signals Moscow's continued efforts to deepen diplomatic and strategic ties with African nations. The summit series is a key platform for Russia to expand its influence across the continent.

Bombing Iran is futile – Merz

3/17/2026, 9:59:45 AM

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has sharply criticised the United States for pursuing military strikes against Iran without a clear exit strategy. He warned that aerial bombardment alone cannot bring about regime change in Tehran. Merz's comments reflect growing European unease over the direction and endgame of the US-led military campaign against Iran.

‘I can do anything I want with Cuba’ – Trump

3/17/2026, 9:48:59 AM

US President Donald Trump has boasted that he could have the "honor" of "taking Cuba in some form," in a fresh escalation of his threatening rhetoric toward the island nation. The remarks underscore Trump's increasingly aggressive posture toward Latin American governments he considers hostile to Washington. The statement has drawn widespread attention as an unusually brazen assertion of US interventionist intent.

Hungary accuses Ukraine of blocking delegation from visiting vital oil pipeline

3/17/2026, 9:34:15 AM

Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has accused Ukraine of refusing to meet with and blocking a Hungarian delegation from inspecting the Druzhba oil pipeline, a critical energy artery for Budapest. The dispute marks a new flashpoint in the already strained relations between Hungary and Ukraine over energy supply. Budapest has long depended on Russian oil transited through Ukrainian territory via the Druzhba pipeline.

India condemns alleged Pakistani airstrike on Afghan hospital

3/17/2026, 9:18:51 AM

India has strongly condemned an alleged Pakistani airstrike on a hospital in Kabul, calling the reported bombing a "cowardly and unconscionable act of violence." New Delhi's statement adds an international diplomatic dimension to the incident, coming amid already strained Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. The strike, attributed to Pakistan, has drawn widespread condemnation for targeting civilian medical infrastructure.

Multiple suicide bomb explosions hit Nigeria (VIDEO)

3/17/2026, 9:18:32 AM

Nigeria's army has attributed a series of deadly suicide bomb explosions at three locations in Borno State to Boko Haram militants. The attacks mark a fresh escalation of jihadist violence in the region, which has long been the epicentre of the Boko Haram insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin. Casualty figures and further details are still emerging.

Details emerge of damage to US Navy’s largest warship after fire

3/17/2026, 8:31:28 AM

The New York Times has revealed new details about a recent fire aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford, the United States Navy's largest and most advanced aircraft carrier. The report sheds light on the extent of the damage sustained by the vessel following last week's incident. The fire raises significant concerns about the operational readiness of one of America's most powerful naval assets.

European nations warn Israel over Lebanon invasion

3/17/2026, 7:25:28 AM

European leaders have called on Israel to halt its military incursion into Lebanon, warning of potentially devastating humanitarian consequences. The appeal reflects growing concern among European governments over the escalating conflict along the Israel-Lebanon border. No specific ceasefire agreement has been announced in response to the warnings.

India arrests Ukrainians and American for alleged terror training – media

3/17/2026, 7:01:47 AM

India's National Investigating Agency (NIA) has arrested six Ukrainians and one American national on allegations of training terrorists based in Myanmar. The arrests mark a rare case of Western nationals being implicated in militant training networks in Southeast Asia. The development raises significant questions about foreign involvement in insurgent activities along India's eastern neighbourhood.

Iran is not Iraq: The high price of misreading a regional power

3/17/2026, 6:34:54 AM

A new RT opinion piece warns that Washington is repeating the mistakes of the Iraq War by underestimating Iran's resilience, regional influence and strategic depth. The article argues that Iran's centrality in the Middle East makes a military campaign far more costly and unpredictable than past interventions. It also highlights the severe global economic risks — particularly to energy markets — of yet another failed Western military experiment in the region.

Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of killing 400 in hospital strike (VIDEO)

3/17/2026, 1:37:31 AM

Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of carrying out a strike on a drug rehabilitation center in Kabul, with Kabul claiming the attack killed around 400 people. The incident marks a dramatic escalation in tensions between the Taliban-governed Afghanistan and Pakistan. The strike, if confirmed at the scale alleged, would represent one of the deadliest single attacks in the region in recent years.

Cuba suffers nationwide power outage amid US blockade

3/16/2026, 11:45:50 PM

Cuba experienced a nationwide power outage on Monday, with authorities pointing to the ongoing US oil blockade as a key contributing factor. The blackout left the entire island without electricity, compounding the already severe energy crisis gripping the country. Cuba has been struggling with chronic fuel shortages and frequent outages, which Havana attributes largely to American sanctions and the energy embargo.

Iran: the foreign policy puzzle that keeps defeating Washington

3/16/2026, 11:04:40 PM

RT's analysis argues that Iran has long represented an intractable foreign policy challenge for successive American administrations, trapping each president in an endless geopolitical crisis. Despite decades of sanctions, diplomacy and military pressure, Washington has repeatedly failed to fundamentally alter Tehran's strategic behaviour. The piece frames Iran as a structural problem embedded in US foreign policy that no single administration has been able to resolve.

BBC asks US court to drop Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit

3/16/2026, 9:21:54 PM

The BBC has filed a motion in a US court to dismiss Donald Trump's $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the broadcaster. The BBC argues that its documentary did not cause sufficient reputational damage to the US President to justify such a large legal claim. The case centers on Trump's allegations that BBC coverage seriously harmed his reputation.

When ideology can’t stand up to reality: Why Germany is turning back to China

3/16/2026, 9:12:22 PM

Germany is recalibrating its policy toward China as economic pressures override ideological reservations, according to an RT analysis. Berlin, facing sluggish growth and industrial challenges, is moving to restore closer trade and diplomatic ties with Beijing despite earlier rhetoric about "de-risking." The shift signals that economic gravity is proving stronger than the West's push for strategic distance from China.

Iran war could cost over 100,000 Brits their jobs – Telegraph

3/16/2026, 9:00:04 PM

The Telegraph has reported that the US-Israeli war on Iran could result in the loss of more than 100,000 jobs in the United Kingdom. The projected job losses stem from soaring oil prices triggered by the conflict, which would weigh heavily on the British economy. The warning underscores the far-reaching economic consequences of the Middle East conflict beyond the immediate region.

How the world’s reacting to Trump’s call to patrol the Hormuz Strait

3/16/2026, 8:40:45 PM

US President Donald Trump has called on nations to send warships to patrol the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route, amid rising tensions with Iran. The appeal has largely been met with silence from the international community, with few governments publicly endorsing or responding to the proposal. The muted reaction underscores the reluctance of US allies and other powers to be drawn into a potential confrontation in the Gulf.

Trump, power politics, and Russia’s new reality with Washington

3/16/2026, 6:56:51 PM

An analysis published by RT examines how Donald Trump's "America First" strategy is reshaping US power projection and triggering a broader global confrontation. The piece explores Russia's recalibration of its relationship with Washington under the Trump administration's shifting geopolitical priorities. It frames the evolving dynamic as a fundamental reordering of US foreign policy with lasting consequences for the international order.

EU ‘completely discredited itself’ in Ukraine peace process – Lavrov

3/16/2026, 6:47:47 PM

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has declared that the European Union has completely discredited itself as a credible mediator in the Ukraine peace process. Lavrov's remarks reflect Moscow's longstanding position that the EU is not a neutral party, given its extensive military and financial support for Kyiv. The statement comes as international diplomatic efforts to end the conflict continue to face major obstacles.

3/16/2026, 5:14:23 PM

The killing of New-Right activist Quentin Deranque, allegedly by antifa members, has triggered a major political shockwave in France. The incident has placed the political left on the defensive, with critics accusing it of fostering a climate of violence. The case has reignited deep divisions over political extremism and street violence in French society.

Hamas meets Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ for first time – Reuters

3/16/2026, 4:39:39 PM

Hamas has held its first-ever meeting with the US-led Board of Peace, a Trump administration initiative, to discuss efforts to revive the stalled Gaza ceasefire plan, Reuters reported. The talks come amid the broader context of the ongoing Iran war, which has complicated regional diplomacy. The meeting marks a notable diplomatic development as Washington seeks to push forward a resolution to the Gaza conflict.

EU losing credibility – ex-foreign policy chief

3/16/2026, 4:11:38 PM

Former EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has warned that the European Union is undermining its own credibility by failing to push back against the United States. The veteran Spanish diplomat suggested the bloc must assert itself more forcefully on the international stage. His remarks reflect growing debate within Europe over the degree of strategic autonomy the EU should exercise in its relationship with Washington.

Hormuz war risk premiums spike – Euronews

3/16/2026, 4:07:24 PM

The ongoing US-Israeli war against Iran has caused war risk insurance premiums in the Strait of Hormuz to surge dramatically, making it the world's most expensive waterway for shipping, according to Euronews. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint through which a significant share of the world's oil passes, and the escalating conflict is raising serious concerns about global energy supply chains. The spike in premiums reflects the heightened danger faced by commercial vessels navigating the volatile region.

Floods force South Africa to shut border with neighbor (VIDEO)

3/16/2026, 3:48:08 PM

South Africa's Border Management Authority has closed two ports of entry along its border with Mozambique following severe flooding in the region. The closures are aimed at ensuring the safety of travellers and border personnel amid dangerous conditions. No timeline for reopening has been announced.

Hegseth’s call for ‘no mercy’ to Iranians deemed war crime

3/16/2026, 3:33:17 PM

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has drawn sharp condemnation after declaring "no quarter" for Iranians in the ongoing conflict, with critics accusing him of inciting war crimes. Under international humanitarian law, ordering that no quarter be given — meaning no mercy or surrender accepted — is explicitly prohibited. The remarks have intensified scrutiny of the US military posture toward Iran.

Hungary rules out compromises on Ukraine loan

3/16/2026, 2:40:51 PM

Hungary will continue blocking EU financial aid to Ukraine and new sanctions against Russia until oil supplies via the Druzhba pipeline are restored, Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has declared. Budapest shows no sign of softening its position, making any compromise contingent on the resumption of Russian oil deliveries. The standoff highlights Hungary's growing use of energy leverage to resist EU consensus on the Ukraine conflict.

The battle for Iran’s neighbors: Why Washington’s isolation strategy is faltering

3/16/2026, 2:39:00 PM

The United States is attempting to build a regional coalition against Iran by enlisting Arab states, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, but its isolation strategy is encountering significant obstacles rooted in complex regional dynamics. Neighbouring countries are reluctant to align fully with Washington, given their own economic ties, security concerns and historical relationships with Tehran. The analysis highlights that geopolitical realities in the region are far more nuanced than US policymakers appear to anticipate.

Hungary announces oil pipeline deal amid feud with Ukraine

3/16/2026, 2:31:23 PM

Hungary is set to sign a bilateral pipeline agreement with Slovakia as the two countries seek to secure an alternative oil supply route amid an ongoing dispute with Ukraine over transit. The deal reflects Budapest's effort to reduce dependence on Ukrainian-controlled infrastructure for Russian oil flows. The move underscores growing tensions between Hungary and Ukraine over energy transit arrangements.

Iran school strike responsibility not ‘important issue’ – ex-CENTCOM commander (VIDEO)

3/16/2026, 2:28:51 PM

Former CENTCOM commander William Fallon has downplayed the urgency of identifying who was responsible for a strike on a school in Minab, Iran, that killed over 160 schoolgirls. Fallon stated that establishing accountability for the attack is not currently an "important issue." The remarks come amid ongoing military conflict involving Iran and have drawn attention for appearing to dismiss a significant civilian casualty event.

Moscow talks give Russia-Kenya dialogue ‘new impetus’ – Lavrov

3/16/2026, 2:03:04 PM

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held talks with Kenyan counterpart Musalia Mudavadi in Moscow, declaring the meeting gave a "new impetus" to bilateral relations. The discussions are seen as part of Russia's broader push to deepen diplomatic and economic ties across the African continent. The meeting signals growing engagement between Moscow and Nairobi amid Russia's intensified outreach to African nations.

South Africa reviews Israel’s defense in Gaza genocide case

3/16/2026, 1:23:41 PM

South Africa announced it is reviewing Israel's counter-memorial submitted in the genocide case before the International Court of Justice, and will determine its next legal steps accordingly. The case, brought by Pretoria, accuses Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. South Africa's decision on how to proceed is expected following a thorough assessment of Israel's defense arguments.

Zelensky accuses EU backers of ‘blackmail’

3/16/2026, 1:08:34 PM

Ukrainian President Zelensky has sharply condemned an initiative by some of his EU backers to resume Russian oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline, calling it "blackmail." The move signals a rare and open rift between Kyiv and certain European partners despite ongoing war with Russia. Zelensky's criticism underscores the tension between Ukraine's strategic interests and Europe's energy needs.

China directly mediating between Pakistan and Afghanistan – Foreign Ministry

3/16/2026, 12:40:31 PM

China's special envoy on Afghan affairs has been shuttling between Kabul and Islamabad in an active mediation effort between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Beijing's Foreign Ministry confirmed that China is directly facilitating ceasefire talks between the two neighbouring countries. The move underscores China's growing role as a regional power broker in South and Central Asia.

Moscow issues warning over Trump’s Golden Dome plan

3/16/2026, 12:31:33 PM

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned that Donald Trump's proposed Golden Dome missile defense system poses a serious threat to global nuclear security and risks militarizing outer space. Moscow views the initiative as a destabilizing move that could upset existing strategic balances. The warning signals growing Russian concern over the US plan to build a comprehensive national missile shield.

The ‘rules-based order’ has failed in its mission – helping the West do whatever it wants

3/16/2026, 11:48:51 AM

An RT opinion piece argues that the Western-championed "rules-based international order" was never a neutral framework but a tool serving Western geopolitical interests. The article uses Ursula von der Leyen's recent acknowledgment that the EU can no longer rely on traditional international rules as a springboard to criticize the double standards embedded in that order. The author contends that the system is now unraveling precisely because it was built on selective enforcement benefiting the West.

Dwindling stockpiles and soaring costs: US allies struggle to contain Iranian attacks

3/16/2026, 10:53:21 AM

US allies are struggling to sustain their air defence operations against ongoing Iranian drone and missile attacks, with stockpiles of interceptor missiles dwindling and operational costs soaring. France in particular is reported to be running critically low on air-launched interceptor missiles used to shoot down Iranian drones over the UAE. The situation highlights the growing strain on Western military resources as the conflict with Iran drags on.