Kyiv defiant as Russian bombs rain down on cities

Published

3 years ago

October 11, 2022

Missile strikes right across the war-torn nation are a clear escalation in the conflict. 14 people were killed and dozens more injured as weapons of mass destruction rained down on Ukraine’s major cities

It is the first time the nation’s capital, Kyiv has been targeted in months.

Several regions were left without power or water after the strikes as emergency services work around the clock to survey the damage and provide assistance.

But Ukrainian front-line troops say the morale remains high.

Defiant as ever, Zelensky addresses his battered but unbroken nation from the site of Russia’s attack on Kyiv.

“Restoration work is currently underway across the country.”

“Of 84 Russian missiles launched against Ukraine, 43 were shot down. Out of 24 drones, 13 were shot down.” pic.twitter.com/XkiIkcvKo3

— Christopher Miller (@ChristopherJM) October 10, 2022

Putin’s revenge

Russian President Vladimir Putin says these recent attacks are a direct response to what he labels a ‘terrorist attack’ on the key bridge connecting Russia with annexed-Crimea.

In neighbouring Belarus, the country’s leader Alexander Lukashenko has mobilised his troops near Ukraine and ordered them to fight with Russian forces.

Lukashenko is claiming his nation is next in the firing line, stating Ukraine and NATO are standing by to launch an attack on his country.

He has offered no evidence to substantiate these claims.

https://twitter.com/ukraine_world/status/1579432814696890368?s=20&t=ICdr3TqSCMtWTav4QgqeCQ

“Profound moral issues”

In the United States, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has issued a statement on the missile strikes.

He says the attacks serve as a reminder that Russia’s war “presents a profound moral issue”.

He continues, adding, “no person of conscience – and no country of principle – could be unmoved by the devastation of these horrors”.

The U.S. has confirmed it will continue to provide all kinds of assistance “so Ukraine can defend itself and take care of its people”.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen says these recent attacks are a clear demonstration of Moscow’s motives.

Australia issues evacuation advisory for diplomats and citizens in the Middle East

Australian diplomats’ families in Israel and Lebanon urged to evacuate amid rising tensions; all Australians advised to leave soon.

Published

1 day ago

February 26, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Australian diplomats’ families in Israel and Lebanon urged to evacuate amid rising tensions; all Australians advised to leave soon.

Families of Australian diplomats in Israel and Lebanon have been ordered to evacuate as tensions in the region continue to rise. The government is prioritising the safety of its personnel and their families.

All other Australians have been urged to leave while commercial flights and other travel options are still available. Authorities are emphasising the importance of acting quickly before options become limited.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has warned that the security situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable and volatile.

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News

Trump signals possible action on Iran nuclear threat

Trump warns Iran on nuclear weapons and highlights threats, as US boosts military presence amid stalled talks.

Published

1 day ago

February 26, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Trump warns Iran on nuclear weapons and highlights threats, as the US boosts military presence amid stalled talks.

President Donald Trump laid out a strong warning to Iran during his State of the Union address. He labelled Tehran as the world’s biggest sponsor of terrorism and signalled that the U.S. might take action if Iran continues its nuclear ambitions.

Trump emphasised that Iran’s missile and nuclear programs, along with its backing of militant groups, pose serious threats to regional stability.

This comes amid growing concerns over Iran’s nuclear developments and the stalled diplomatic efforts to curb them.

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News

Qantas announces 8,500 jobs and frequent flyer changes

Qantas announces 8500 new jobs and frequent flyer program revamp after record half-year profit of $1.46 billion

Published

1 day ago

February 26, 2026

Ahron Young

Qantas announces 8500 new jobs and frequent flyer program revamp after record half-year profit of $1.46 billion

In Short:
– Qantas reported a $1.46 billion half-year profit, planning to create 8,500 jobs by 2030.
– Frequent Flyer program changes include earning status credits on the ground and rolling over excess credits.

The Qantas Group reported a record half-year profit of $1.46 billion for the first half of the 2026 financial year, an increase of $71 million compared to the previous period. The airline plans to create 8,500 jobs by 2030 and re-establish a cabin crew base in Singapore, along with new initiatives for frequent flyers.Statutory profit after tax rose to $925 million, allowing shareholders to receive a fully franked dividend of 19.8 cents per share.

The current underlying profit surpasses the record set in 2023 under former CEO Alan Joyce. Chief executive Vanessa Hudson highlighted a commitment to customer, employee, and shareholder satisfaction while emphasizing ongoing investments in fleet renewal.

As Qantas adds new aircraft to its fleet, it anticipates the creation of jobs, including 3,500 additional cabin crew and 1,000 pilots.

A new Jetstar cabin crew base will open in Perth later this year, generating 90 roles, while Singapore is expected to accommodate 400 cabin crew members.

Qantas CEo Vanessa Hudson.

Frequent Flyer Changes

Qantas will implement significant changes to its Frequent Flyer program. Members can now earn status credits on the ground through credit cards and program partners.

They will also have the option to rollover up to 50% of excess status credits from one year to the next.

Hudson stated the overhaul aims to enhance flexibility and recognition for members amid a changing loyalty landscape.