United News of Bangladesh

Russian drone attacks on Ukraine’s capital early Sunday killed three people and injured at least 29 others, including seven children, in the second consecutive night of deadly strikes on Kyiv. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said a 19-year-old woman and her 46-year-old mother were among the dead. Fires broke out in two residential buildings in Kyiv’s Desnianskyi district after drones hit the area, forcing emergency teams to evacuate residents from a nine-story and a 16-story building. Firefighters battled the flames and cleared debris from the site. One resident, 74-year-old Olha Yevhenivha, described heavy smoke filling her apartment. “Our windows turned completely black from the smoke,” she said. “We couldn’t leave, so we soaked blankets in water and sealed the doors and balcony.” Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched 101 drones overnight, of which 90 were intercepted. The remaining drones struck four sites, while falling debris damaged several other locations across the city. The latest barrage followed Saturday’s missile and drone attacks that killed four people, including two in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy renewed appeals to Western allies for more air defense systems, saying continued support was crucial to protect civilians and critical infrastructure as winter approaches. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that Russia had successfully tested a new nuclear-capable and nuclear-powered cruise missile designed to evade existing air defenses. The announcement underscored Moscow’s continued efforts to project military strength even as its invasion of Ukraine enters its fourth year.

Police in France have arrested suspects linked to last week’s dramatic heist at the Louvre Museum, where parts of France’s Crown Jewels worth €88 million were stolen, the Paris prosecutor’s office said Sunday. Prosecutor Laure Beccuau said the arrests were made Saturday evening during an operation carried out by a special police unit that handles major robberies and art thefts. One of the suspects was detained at Roissy Airport as he attempted to leave the country, she added. French media earlier reported two arrests, though the prosecutor did not confirm the number of people in custody or whether any of the stolen treasures had been recovered so far. The brazen robbery unfolded early last Sunday and took the thieves less than eight minutes. Using a basket lift, they scaled the façade of the world‑famous museum, forced open a window, smashed display cases and escaped with jewels tied to France’s royal and imperial heritage. The Louvre’s director described the theft as a “terrible failure.” Beccuau warned that leaked details could hamper the efforts of more than 100 investigators “mobilised to recover the stolen jewels and apprehend all of the perpetrators.” Further information will be released after the suspects’ interrogation period ends, she said. French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez applauded the efforts of investigators, saying they had worked relentlessly “with my full confidence.” The Louvre reopened to visitors earlier this week following what many described as one of the century’s most audacious museum robberies — a cultural blow compared by some to the 2019 fire at Notre Dame Cathedral. A total of eight artifacts were stolen, including a sapphire diadem, necklace and single earring linked to 19th‑century queens Marie‑Amélie and Hortense; an emerald necklace and earrings associated with Empress Marie‑Louise, Napoleon Bonaparte’s second wife; and imperial jewels belonging to Empress Eugénie. One piece — Eugénie’s emerald‑studded crown featuring more than 1,300 diamonds — was found damaged outside the museum but is considered restorable. Source: AP

The recent $100 million theft at the Louvre has thrust France’s historic Crown Jewels — long admired domestically but little known internationally — into the global spotlight, much like the Mona Lisa after its 1911 theft. The robbery, which took place in the Apollo Gallery, has sparked worldwide media attention. Authorities say the thieves scaled the building from the Seine-facing side, broke a window, smashed two display cases, and fled on motorbikes within minutes. While some stolen items have been recovered, most remain missing, including royal and imperial pieces adorned with sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds, many tied to Empress Eugénie and other French royals. Art historians say the theft, though a grave loss, could paradoxically elevate the jewels’ fame. “The drama, the heist, and the Apollo Gallery itself may shine a new spotlight on these treasures, much like the Mona Lisa after 1911,” said Anya Firestone, a Paris-based heritage expert. Visitors are already drawn to the scene, curious to witness where history was stolen. For France, the stolen jewels are more than valuable stones; they are tangible chapters of national history, representing the monarchy, Napoleon’s empire, and the evolution of modern France. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez called the loss “immeasurable,” while Louvre director Laurence des Cars acknowledged serious security lapses and proposed additional safeguards. Despite the theft, the museum reopened to full crowds, with staff warning that the Apollo Gallery’s closure and stretched security make managing visitors challenging. Curators emphasize the importance of preserving the originals, warning against recutting or melting the jewels, which would erase their historical authenticity. The Louvre heist leaves an uneasy question: Can a crime that tore deeply into France’s heritage also cement the jewels as legendary symbols? Experts say in the “economy of fame, even bad news becomes attention — and attention can make icons.” Source: AP

British authorities are searching for Ethiopian asylum-seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, who was mistakenly released from prison despite being sentenced for sexual assault. Police are reviewing hours of CCTV footage as part of a multi-force effort to locate him. Kebatu had been sentenced in September to 12 months in prison for five offenses, including the sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl in Epping, just over a week after arriving in the U.K. by boat. Officials said he was released Friday by mistake from a Chelmsford prison, reportedly due to a misclassification, and was last seen boarding a train. “Officers worked throughout the night to track his movements, including scouring hours of CCTV footage, and this work continues today,” said Essex Police. Authorities stressed the urgency of locating Kebatu and apprehending him promptly. The Prison Service has launched an investigation into the error, and a prison officer has been temporarily removed from duties pending the outcome. Kebatu’s arrest and case had previously triggered widespread anti-migrant protests in London and other cities. Demonstrations initially targeted the Bell Hotel in Epping, where he was staying with other recently arrived migrants, and later spread to other migrant accommodations, occasionally involving far-right activists and unrest. Counterprotests were organized by groups including Stand Up to Racism. The incident has highlighted ongoing tensions in the U.K. over unauthorized migration, particularly the tens of thousands of migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats. Controversy also surrounds the government’s practice of housing asylum-seekers in hotels while their applications are processed. Authorities continue to emphasize that public safety is their top priority as they coordinate the search across London and surrounding areas.

Early vote counts from Ireland’s presidential election Saturday indicate a strong lead for left-wing independent Catherine Connolly over center-right rival Heather Humphreys. The two women were the only contenders after Fianna Fáil candidate Jim Gavin withdrew three weeks before the election over a past financial dispute. Prime Minister Micheál Martin had backed Gavin, whose name remains on the ballot due to his late withdrawal. Connolly, 68, a former barrister and independent lawmaker since 2016, has drawn support from several left-leaning parties, including Sinn Féin, the Labour Party, and the Social Democrats. She has been vocal in criticizing Israel over the war in Gaza. Humphreys, 64, a former cabinet minister from Fine Gael, has emphasized her centrist, pro-business, and pro-EU platform, focusing on unity and building bridges across communities. Others, including musician Bob Geldof and former MMA champion Conor McGregor, had attempted to run but did not secure enough backing to be nominated. The winner will succeed Michael D. Higgins, who has served two seven-year terms since 2011. Ireland will have its 10th president, and the third woman to hold the largely ceremonial post. Votes are being counted by hand across all 43 electoral constituencies. Final results are expected later Saturday once the counting is complete.  

Voters in Ireland went to the polls Friday to elect a new president, with two women, Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys, competing for the largely ceremonial seven-year post. Connolly, a left-wing independent lawmaker supported by Sinn Féin, Labour, and the Social Democrats, is widely seen as the front-runner, holding around 40% in recent polls. Known for her outspoken stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, Connolly has pledged to be “an independent president with an independent mind” and a voice for equality and justice. Her rival, Heather Humphreys of the center-right Fine Gael party, secured 20–25% support in surveys. A former cabinet minister with extensive government experience, Humphreys emphasizes a pro-business, pro-EU platform and aims to “build bridges” with communities in Northern Ireland. The two candidates are the only contenders after Jim Gavin of Fianna Fáil withdrew earlier this month over a past financial dispute. Other potential candidates, including musician Bob Geldof and former MMA champion Conor McGregor, failed to secure sufficient backing for nomination. Ireland’s current president, Michael D. Higgins, has served two consecutive seven-year terms since 2011. The winner will become the country’s 10th president and the third woman to hold the office. The president’s role is largely ceremonial but includes constitutional powers such as appointing the prime minister, signing legislation into law, and representing Ireland internationally. Past presidents, including Higgins, have occasionally spoken on key issues like international conflicts and NATO spending. Polling stations closed at 10 p.m. (2100 GMT) Friday, with counting set to begin Saturday. Provisional results are expected later that day, followed by the inauguration ceremony at Dublin Castle the next day.  

At least four people were killed and 16 others injured as Russian missile and drone strikes targeted Ukraine overnight into Saturday, officials said, prompting President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to appeal anew for Western air defense systems. In Kyiv, two people died and nine were injured when a ballistic missile hit the capital early Saturday, Timur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s city military administration, told reporters. The State Emergency Service said a fire broke out in a non-residential building at one location, while debris from intercepted missiles fell in another, damaging nearby windows. “Explosions in the capital. The city is under ballistic attack,” Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko wrote on Telegram amid the strikes. In the Dnipropetrovsk region, two people were killed and seven wounded, acting regional Governor Vladyslav Haivanenko said, noting that apartment buildings and private homes were damaged. Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched nine missiles and 62 drones, of which four missiles and 50 drones were intercepted. Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed its air defenses shot down 121 Ukrainian drones over Russian territory overnight. President Zelenskyy stressed that such attacks highlight the urgent need for Patriot missile defense systems. “It is precisely because of such attacks that we pay special attention to Patriot systems — to be able to protect our cities from this horror. It is critical that partners who possess relevant capability implement what we have discussed in recent days,” he wrote in English on X. He added that the United States, Europe, and G7 countries can help prevent such attacks from threatening lives. Ukraine is seeking to purchase 25 Patriot systems from the U.S. to strengthen its urban air defenses. Zelenskyy also urged the U.S. to expand sanctions on Russian oil to cover the entire sector and called for long-range missiles to retaliate against Russian strikes. The Ukrainian president was in London for talks with over two dozen European leaders, hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, aimed at bolstering military aid for Ukraine and pressuring Russian President Vladimir Putin. Discussions focused on protecting Ukraine’s power grid from near-daily attacks, enhancing air defenses, and supplying long-range missiles to strike deeper into Russian territory. Zelenskyy has requested U.S. Tomahawk missiles, a proposal reportedly under consideration by President Donald Trump.  

Overnight Russian missile and drone strikes across Ukraine killed at least four people and injured 16 others, Ukrainian officials said Saturday. In Kyiv, two people were killed and nine wounded in a ballistic missile attack early Saturday, according to Timur Tkachenko, head of the city’s military administration. A fire broke out in a non-residential building, while debris from intercepted missiles damaged nearby structures, Ukraine’s State Emergency Service reported. Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that the capital came under a “ballistic attack.” In the Dnipropetrovsk region, two people were killed and seven others injured, acting regional governor Vladyslav Haivanenko said. Apartment blocks, private houses, a store, and vehicles were damaged in the strikes. Ukraine’s Air Force said Russia launched nine missiles and 62 drones overnight, of which four missiles and 50 drones were intercepted. Meanwhile, Russia’s defense ministry claimed to have shot down 121 Ukrainian drones over its territory. The attacks followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s appeal to the United States on Friday to expand sanctions on Russia’s oil industry and provide long-range missiles for counterstrikes. Zelenskyy made the appeal while in London for talks with European leaders, hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The meeting sought to reinforce Western support for Ukraine, tighten sanctions on Russia, and enhance defenses against Moscow’s persistent aerial assaults as winter nears. Leaders also discussed strengthening Ukraine’s power grid and providing Kyiv with longer-range weapons capable of striking deep inside Russia. Zelenskyy has urged Washington to supply Tomahawk missiles, an option U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly considering.

A German-built freight lift has become an unexpected star on social media after thieves used it in a rapid daylight robbery at the Louvre Museum in Paris. Photos of the lift, manufactured by Böcker Maschinenwerke GmbH, went viral this week as details emerged of how the criminals staged their brazen heist. The burglars spent less than four minutes inside the museum on Sunday, climbing the Louvre’s façade in the lift, breaking into a window, smashing display cases and escaping with Napoleonic jewels before fleeing on motorbikes. Alexander Böcker, managing director and third-generation owner of the Herdecke-based company, said he and his wife were initially “shocked that our lift had been misused for this robbery.” Writing in an email, he added that “once the initial shock had subsided, black humour took over.” The company lost no time seizing the marketing moment. By Monday, Böcker posted a promotional image of the freight lift, normally used in construction and furniture moves, with a slogan translating to “when something needs to be done quickly.” The post also highlighted the “Böcker Agilo’s” ability to carry up to 400 kilograms at 42 meters per minute, describing the device as “whisper quiet” thanks to its 230 Volt electric motor. “We had hoped for a bit of attention and some good humour, but the feedback was overwhelming,” Böcker said Thursday. “I can understand that not everyone shares this sense of humour, but the vast majority laughed heartily.” The company stressed that its lifts are not meant to carry people. Crown jewels may be one thing, Böcker suggested. Thieves are not.  

A surge in mysterious drone flights across NATO airspace in recent weeks has raised security concerns in Europe, with several governments blaming Russia for testing the alliance’s response capabilities amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. European officials said the incursions reached an unprecedented scale last month. On Sept. 10, a swarm of Russian drones entered Polish airspace, prompting NATO fighter jets to scramble and shoot down some of the devices. It marked the first direct confrontation between the alliance and Moscow since the war began in 2022. Days later, NATO jets escorted three Russian military aircraft out of Estonian airspace. Drone sightings have since been reported near airports, military installations and critical infrastructure across the continent. European defense ministers have agreed to build a “drone wall” along borders to detect and intercept potential threats. Russia has denied deliberately sending drones into NATO territory and said any incidents were accidental. In several countries, authorities have struggled to verify reported sightings, with some initially believed to be drones later identified as stars or other objects. On Thursday, Lithuania reported a brief violation of its airspace by Russian military aircraft. The country’s president described the intrusion as a serious breach of sovereignty and a threat to wider European security. NATO aircraft conducting air policing duties were scrambled in response. Russia rejected the claim and insisted its planes followed international rules. Disruptions have spilled into the civilian aviation sector. Munich Airport was shut down twice earlier this month due to drone sightings. At Copenhagen Airport, flights were severely disrupted on Sept. 22. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Russian involvement could not be ruled out, calling the episode possibly the most serious attack to date on Danish infrastructure. A similar sighting that evening at Norway’s Oslo Airport forced departures and landings onto a single runway while authorities investigated a possible link between incidents. Danish officials said drones also flew over four smaller airports between Sept. 24 and Sept. 25, including two used by the military. Reports in Danish media noted sightings near Karup Air Base, the country’s largest military site, though the Defense Ministry declined to confirm specific locations, citing operational security. Germany has launched investigations into drones spotted over key facilities in Schleswig-Holstein. Regional officials confirmed sightings over a power plant, a shipyard, a university hospital and the Heide oil refinery. A reported formation of drones also appeared over Kiel facilities linked to maritime defense technology. Another suspicious flight was recorded above a military base in the neighboring state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Estonia and Lithuania have issued diplomatic protests over recent Russian aircraft intrusions. Estonia summoned a Russian envoy after three fighter jets entered its airspace last month and remained for 12 minutes. Governments across Europe have been weighing rules on whether to authorize the use of force against drones in real time. Security analysts say the incidents highlight NATO’s vulnerabilities on its northern and eastern flanks as Russia appears to probe for weaknesses while also denying any wrongdoing. The heightened alert has contributed to wider concerns about escalating tensions between Moscow and the Western alliance, with officials warning that even brief or accidental airspace breaches risk triggering a more serious confrontation.