Saudi Objection Pushes Pakistan to Freeze Planned Sudan Sale
A major Pakistan-Sudan defense agreement was put on hold after Saudi Arabia reportedly withdrew financing and asked for the arrangement to be terminated.
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Intermediate English News — Level 2 — Page 12
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Washington Pushes G20 to Keep Food and Fertilizer Flows Moving
U.S. officials said more G20 discussions are coming as war-related disruption threatens fertilizer shipments, food prices, and vulnerable economies.
Shipping Activity Returns to the Strait of Hormuz
New tanker movements on April 18 suggest that commercial traffic may be recovering in one of the world’s most important energy corridors.
Russia Says Ukrainian Drones Hit Samara Industrial Sites
Authorities in Samara reported new drone strikes on industrial targets, including areas near oil refineries.
Australia and Japan Move Ahead With Landmark Frigate Agreement
The two countries signed contracts on April 18 to begin a major defense project centered on new warships.
Central Japan Reports Strong Quake in Nagano
An earthquake in Nagano caused strong shaking on April 18 and reminded residents of Japan’s constant seismic risk.
Pope Leo XIV Rejects Political Fight and Repeats Peace Message
Speaking on April 18, Pope Leo XIV said he is not interested in debating Trump and will continue urging peace.
Iran opens Hormuz as Lebanon ceasefire begins
A ceasefire and shipping news brought some relief to markets.
French widow returns home after ICE detention
An elderly French woman was freed after France stepped in.
South Korea captures escaped zoo wolf alive
A nationwide search ended with the wolf returning safely to the zoo.
EU begins talks with Hungary's incoming government
Budapest hosted early talks as both sides looked for a reset.
US Senate backs mining near Boundary Waters
Lawmakers approved a controversial step that supporters call economic and critics call dangerous.
V&A East Launches an Exhibition on the Legacy of Black Music in Britain
The new London exhibition focuses on how Black music shaped British culture, identity, and creative life across generations.
Berlin Tests a Tourism Program That Rewards Visitors for Picking Up Trash
The city wants to connect sightseeing with civic responsibility by offering free entry benefits to visitors who help clean public areas.
Szijjarto's Sudden Absence Adds to Uncertainty Around Hungary's Post-Election Direction
The missing minister and his cancelled EU appearance have deepened questions about Budapest's diplomatic position and internal political pressure.
Massive Russian Barrage Brings Heavy Civilian Losses Across Ukraine
Authorities said hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles targeted major cities in one of the most destructive attacks of 2026 so far.
Pakistan Steps Back Into a Mediator Role in the US-Iran Crisis
Pakistani officials are trying to keep diplomatic channels open as the ceasefire passes its midpoint and uncertainty remains high.
IMF Lowers Global Forecast and Warns About Energy-Driven Recession Risk
The fund says rising oil prices and supply disruptions are making the economic outlook weaker and more uncertain.