World News Live Updates: British surgeon describes treating severe civilian injuries in Gaza hospitals

British surgeon describes treating severe civilian injuries in Gaza hospitals

A British surgeon, Dr. Victoria Rose, shared an account of her 21 days working in Gaza's hospitals during May, The New York Times said in a report. She described treating numerous patients with severe injuries, including civilians who were shot while attempting to access food aid and children who sustained life-changing wounds, such as amputations and complex fractures, from Israeli bombings. Her testimony is consistent with reports from international organizations detailing a collapsing healthcare system overwhelmed by trauma cases amid the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.

Israel launches new ground incursion into Lebanon, escalating conflict with Hezbollah

Israel has launched a new ground incursion into Lebanon, marking a significant escalation in its conflict with Hezbollah, as per a report in The New York Times. The move follows a period of near-daily Israeli strikes against what it describes as Hezbollah targets and cross-border attacks from the Iranian-backed group, which have been ongoing since October 2023. This ground operation raises fears for the stability of the UN-brokered truce that ended the 2006 Lebanon War and heightens the risk of a wider regional conflict.

Republicans urge US universities to cut ties with China-backed scholarship program

Leaders of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party have sent letters urging seven U.S. universities, including Dartmouth College and the University of Notre Dame, to end their partnerships with the China Scholarship Council, AP says in a report. The Republican lawmakers described the Chinese government-funded program as a "nefarious mechanism" designed to steal technology. The committee's letters express concern over the program, which sponsors hundreds of Chinese students for study abroad opportunities.

India and China work to reset ties amid persistent challenges and caution

Bilateral relations between India and China have improved since the fatal 2020 Galwan Valley clash, but significant challenges and caution define the current dynamic, according to a report in BBC. Despite multiple rounds of military talks that have led to partial disengagement at some friction points, key areas like Depsang and Demchok remain unresolved. Both nations continue to maintain significant military deployments and build infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), indicating deep-seated mistrust. Concurrently, India is pursuing policies to reduce economic dependence on China while strengthening strategic partnerships with other countries through forums like the Quad, further complicating the relationship.

US venture partners with combatants for aid delivery, challenging humanitarian norms

A US entrepreneurial venture named Fogbow is working to deliver food to desperate and inaccessible parts of the world by directly partnering with combatants, according to a report in The Washington Post. This model challenges the foundational humanitarian principles of neutrality and impartiality, which are intended to ensure aid is provided based on need and to protect aid workers. While the venture aims to bypass systemic blockages to reach populations in need, established aid organizations have warned of serious unintended consequences, including the risk of legitimizing armed groups, the potential for aid to be diverted, and compromising the safety and perceived neutrality of all humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.

UK and France to coordinate nuclear weapons for the first time

The UK and France have announced they will coordinate their nuclear weapons for the first time, marking a significant increase in defense cooperation between the two allies, according to a report in Financial Times. The unprecedented move is a direct response to the growing threat posed by Russia and aims to strengthen the European pillar of NATO's overall nuclear deterrence posture. While the two nations have historically maintained independent nuclear deterrents, this new agreement signals a deeper integration of their strategic planning to present a more unified front and enhance European security.

Hindu pilgrimage resumes in Kashmir under heavy guard

The annual Hindu pilgrimage, known as the Amarnath Yatra, has resumed in the disputed territory of Kashmir under a heavy security presence involving tens of thousands of Indian troops, The Washington Post said in a report. The significant deployment is aimed at protecting pilgrims convening in the region, as the event has historically been a target for militant attacks. The resumption of the pilgrimage with a large-scale military guard highlights the ongoing security challenges in the territory administered by India.

Volkswagen reports nearly 50% surge in global electric vehicle sales

The Volkswagen Group announced a significant increase in its global sales of all-electric vehicles (EVs), which surged by almost 50%, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. Alongside the strong growth in the EV segment, the company's total global vehicle deliveries, including all powertrain types, also saw an increase of more than 1%. The reported sales figures reflect the company's performance amid its ongoing global electrification strategy.

Houthi attack on Red Sea cargo ship kills two sailors

A Houthi missile strike on a cargo ship in the Red Sea has resulted in the deaths of two sailors, according to a report in The Washington Post. The incident marks the first fatalities from Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the area since June 2024. Yemen's Houthi rebels, who state their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians, have resumed their campaign against vessels in the key maritime corridor. The attack occurs as diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza are ongoing.

Russia offers 'shared values visa' to attract conservative Western expatriates

Russia is offering a 'Shared Values Visa' to attract conservative migrants from Western countries who are against LGBTQ+ rights and globalism, Deutsche Welle said in a report. The initiative, colloquially termed the 'anti-woke visa,' is reportedly used by Moscow to leverage the newcomers for propaganda purposes. This program is part of Russia's broader foreign policy to present itself as a global defender of 'traditional values' and an attempt to counteract the effects of Western isolation and domestic brain drain.

First malaria treatment for newborn babies is approved

The first-ever specific malaria treatment tailored for newborn babies has been approved, addressing a critical gap for this vulnerable population, according to a report in The Washington Post. The development is significant in the context of global health data from 2023, which showed malaria caused 597,000 deaths worldwide. Children under five years old were disproportionately affected, accounting for 76 percent of all malaria deaths in the World Health Organization’s Africa region. This new, targeted treatment for infants is designed to complement existing preventive measures, such as vaccines, in the global effort to reduce the disease's mortality rate.

Prospective international students scrub social media accounts over US visa fears

Prospective international students are increasingly scrubbing their social media accounts of posts, photos, and memes for fear that their online presence could lead to a US visa denial, according to a report in The Washington Post. This self-censorship is a response to strict U.S. vetting policies, which include a formal requirement for most visa applicants to submit their social media history. Students are deleting a broad range of content—extending beyond political views to personal posts and humor—to avoid being perceived as diverging from U.S. principles by consular officers. The trend highlights the significant anxiety among applicants and is creating a chilling effect on their online expression as they seek to secure educational opportunities in the United States.

US imposes tariffs on Brazil, hosts African leaders, and resumes Ukraine aid

The Trump administration is engaging in several key foreign policy actions, including hosting African leaders, which highlights a more transactional approach to US-Africa relations amid concerns that proposed aid cuts could impact millions, as per a report in AP. Concurrently, the US has set a 50% tariff on goods from Brazil, a move made despite the Brazilian Vice President stating there was no reason for such a hike. The administration has also resumed sending some weapons to Ukraine, ending a previous pause by the Pentagon.

Trump imposes 50% tariffs on Brazilian goods over Bolsonaro's legal case

US President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports on Wednesday, explicitly linking the trade penalty to Brazil's legal treatment of its former president, Jair Bolsonaro, according to a report in AP. Trump characterized the ongoing trial against Bolsonaro as a 'witch hunt' and, deviating from standard procedure, directly tied the tariffs to this personal grievance rather than economic factors. The move signals a return to tariff uncertainty, with the US leader using trade policy as a tool for political leverage.

US issues sanctions against UN investigator probing human rights in Palestinian territories

The Trump administration announced it is issuing sanctions against Francesca Albanese, the UN's independent investigator for human rights in the Palestinian territories, AP says in a report. The US State Department's action is described as the latest effort to counter criticism of Israel. Albanese has previously urged countries to pressure Israel, which has strongly refuted her allegations regarding its conduct.

Russia attacks Ukraine’s recruitment centers to disrupt mobilization

Russia has been attacking Ukrainian military recruitment centers as part of a strategy to disrupt the country's mobilization efforts, The Washington Post says in a report. These attacks aim to exacerbate Ukraine's existing challenges in replenishing its forces, which have been diminished after three years of war. By targeting the infrastructure for conscription, Russia seeks to degrade Ukraine's long-term military capacity and put further pressure on its ability to sustain its defense against a numerically larger adversary.

US measles cases reach highest level in more than three decades

The US is facing its worst year for measles in more than 30 years, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting 1,288 cases as of Wednesday, as per a report in AP. This figure, recorded only halfway through the year, already surpasses the total from 2019. Public health officials are concerned that the continued spread of the virus could lead to the US losing its measles elimination status, a designation it has held since 2000. While the current numbers are a multi-decade high, they remain significantly lower than the 9,643 cases reported during the 1991 outbreak.

Chelsea reaches FIFA Club World Cup final with 2-0 win over Fluminense

Chelsea has reached the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after defeating Fluminense 2–0 in the semi-final, according to a report in France 24. João Pedro scored both goals for the English club in the match, which is part of the tournament's inaugural expanded 32-team format. The final is scheduled for July 13 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where Chelsea will play the winner of the other semi-final between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. Following the match, manager Enzo Maresca expressed pride in the achievement, though the team faces a fitness concern over midfielder Moisés Caicedo, who left the game with an injury.

US to resume Ukraine arms shipments as Russia launches large-scale drone attack

US President Donald Trump announced the resumption of weapons deliveries to Ukraine and criticized Russian President Putin’s diplomacy as “meaningless,” according to a report in France 24. Hours after the US announcement, Russia launched what was described as its largest drone and missile attack of the war, reportedly deploying over 700 drones. The large-scale strike is widely viewed as a direct response to Washington's renewed military backing for Kyiv.

Kenyan authorities use force against protesters demanding president's resignation

Kenyan authorities have used force, including live ammunition, against demonstrators who continued to protest on Saba Saba Day demanding the resignation of President William Ruto, according to a report in France 24. The youth-led demonstrations, which initially erupted in opposition to a controversial finance bill, have persisted even after the government withdrew the proposed legislation. The protesters' demands have since broadened to calls for the president to step down. During the marches on Monday, which marked the 35th anniversary of the pro-democracy Saba Saba movement, police responded with tear gas, water cannons, and live rounds, resulting in multiple reported fatalities and injuries.

US shifts Africa policy from aid to trade following meeting with leaders

U.S. President Donald Trump informed leaders from five African nations on Wednesday of a strategic shift in the United States' approach to the continent, prioritizing trade over traditional aid, France 24 said in a report. The policy change coincides with reports of economic distress in some African countries, with Lesotho declaring a national "state of disaster" due to soaring unemployment and job losses, which it links to U.S. tariffs and aid reductions. Additionally, the report notes that Egypt is experiencing a deepening economic crisis that is impacting its citizens.

Death toll rises to four after numerous earthquakes in Guatemala

The death toll from a series of earthquakes in Guatemala has risen to four, AP said in a report. Authorities confirmed the fourth death on Wednesday following more than 150 earthquakes and aftershocks that have shaken the country since Tuesday afternoon, with magnitudes ranging from 3.0 to 5.7. The tremors have caused crumbled walls and landslides that have blocked roads. Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo confirmed the recovery of a woman's body from debris south of the capital.

UN reports over 17 million people are facing hunger in Yemen

The United Nations' humanitarian chief, Martin Griffiths, reported to the UN Security Council that more than 17 million people in Yemen are currently facing hunger, according to a report in AP. This figure includes over one million children under the age of five who are suffering from what was described as "life-threatening acute malnutrition." Griffiths stated that the food security crisis in the war-torn country has been accelerating since late 2023 and warned that the number of people going hungry could increase to over 18 million by September.

Turkey's media regulator bans two critical television channels

Turkey's media regulatory authority, the Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK), has imposed a ten-day broadcasting ban on the two largest television channels critical of the government, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. This action takes place within a media landscape where over 95% of outlets are already considered pro-government, further reducing media pluralism. International press freedom organizations consistently rank Turkey low due to widespread censorship and a lack of media diversity, a trend reinforced by the recent ban.

Belly dancer arrested in Egypt over Instagram videos deemed 'morally corrupt'

Egyptian-born belly dancer Linda Martino has been arrested in Cairo over Instagram videos that authorities deemed 'morally corrupt,' according to a report in Fox News. Officials claim her performances, which featured revealing clothing, violated social values and incited vice. This arrest is part of a broader and ongoing crackdown in Egypt where authorities have increasingly used vague cybercrime and morality laws to target social media influencers and artists, particularly women, for content considered indecent by conservative standards.

Family of Kenyan police officer missing in Haiti seeks answers amid conflicting reports

The family of Benedict Kuria, a Kenyan police officer who went missing in Haiti, is expressing anguish over the lack of information from Kenyan authorities, according to a report in The Guardian. Kuria was reportedly ambushed by suspected gang members in March while serving in a security mission. There are conflicting reports about his status; Haitian media have reported that he died in the incident, while Kenya’s police service maintains that a search for him is still continuing, leaving his relatives seeking definitive answers and closure.

Eight men deported from US arrive in South Sudan after legal challenges

Eight men from Cuba, Laos, Mexico, Myanmar, Vietnam, and South Sudan have been deported from the US to South Sudan, according to a report in The Guardian. The men arrived on Friday after being held for weeks at a US military base in Djibouti while their legal challenges were processed through the courts, ultimately reaching the Supreme Court which permitted their removal. Officials from the Trump administration stated the men had been convicted of violent crimes in the US. The deportation proceeded despite a US State Department advisory against travel to South Sudan due to "crime, kidnapping and armed conflict."

Japan evacuates southern islands and boosts defenses amid persistent quake swarm

Japanese authorities have evacuated dozens of people from the remote Tokara Islands in the south and are reinforcing national earthquake and tsunami defenses in response to a prolonged "quake swarm" that has produced over 1,700 tremors in recent weeks, Deutsche Welle says in a report. The heightened state of alert and preparedness is also influenced by the major Noto Peninsula earthquake that occurred in early 2024. The current seismic activity, characterized as a series of localized earthquakes without a single clear mainshock, is serving as a significant real-time test for Japan's disaster management systems, particularly for evacuating remote populations.

Israel's demand to keep troops in Gaza corridor complicates truce talks with Hamas

Ongoing truce negotiations between Israel and Hamas are complicated by Israel's demand to maintain a military presence in the Gaza Strip, according to a report in AP. An Israeli official stated that a key unresolved issue in the talks for a proposed 60-day truce is Israel's desire to keep its forces stationed in the southern "Morag corridor." This east-west axis is one of three corridors Israel has established to divide the territory, a condition that Hamas reportedly considers a "no-go" as it seeks a full withdrawal of Israeli troops.

Australia implements migration and security treaty with Tuvalu

Australia is implementing a migration pathway for citizens of Tuvalu, a nation threatened by rising sea levels, as part of the broader Falepili Union treaty, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. The pathway, colloquially termed a 'climate visa,' is officially the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) and operates on a ballot system, not as an open-ended offer. The program has an initial allocation of 280 visas for Tuvaluans and is a component of a comprehensive bilateral treaty that also includes significant security guarantees from Australia to Tuvalu, covering defense assistance against natural disasters or military aggression. The agreement is viewed as a precedent for addressing climate-induced displacement and a strategic move by Australia to strengthen regional alliances.

Jamal Musiala says no one is to blame for leg fracture at Club World Cup

Bayern Munich player Jamal Musiala stated on Wednesday that "there's no one to blame" for the left leg fracture he sustained during the Club World Cup quarterfinal match against Paris Saint-Germain, AP says in a report. The Germany international suffered a fractured fibula following a tackle from PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma during Bayern's loss on Saturday. In a social media post, Musiala thanked fans for their support and said he appreciated how "the football world comes together" at times like this.

Trump discusses potential Gaza ceasefire, sanctions UN official, and hosts African leaders

US President Donald Trump hosted African leaders amid concerns over potential foreign aid cuts, suggested a Gaza ceasefire agreement could be reached 'this week or next', and the State Department sanctioned a UN official investigating human rights in Gaza and the West Bank, AP says in a report. During a media session, Trump also expressed openness to a future trip to Africa, praised the president of Liberia, and again avoided answering questions regarding who authorized a past pause on military aid to Ukraine. He also commended an IRS decision allowing pastors to endorse political candidates.

US trade initiative concludes with one deal, creating global uncertainty

A US initiative to secure dozens of global trade deals within 90 days has ended, yielding just one agreement and fostering widespread uncertainty, according to a report in AP. Administration officials, including White House trade adviser Peter Navarro who had predicted “90 deals in 90 days,” had stated in April that the threat of massive tariffs starting July 9 would compel countries to make concessions. However, as the deadline passed, the rapid succession of deals promised by President Donald Trump's administration did not materialize.

European court holds Russia responsible for MH17 downing and human rights violations in Ukraine

Europe's top human rights court on Wednesday ruled that Russia is responsible for extensive violations of international law in Ukraine, including the 2014 downing of flight MH17, AP says in a report. The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in The Hague delivered judgments against Moscow for atrocities dating back over a decade, such as murder, torture, and rape. These rulings provide a legal basis for potential compensation claims and future prosecutions, despite Russia having formally withdrawn from the ECHR in 2022, as the court retains jurisdiction over violations that occurred before that date.

Israel's insistence on keeping troops in Gaza complicates truce talks with Hamas

Ceasefire and hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas are being complicated by a key Israeli demand to maintain a military presence within the Gaza Strip, as per a report in AP. An Israeli official stated that a significant unresolved issue is Israel's plan to keep its forces stationed in the southern "Morag corridor," an east-west axis, for the duration of a proposed 60-day truce. This corridor is described as one of three that effectively divide the territory, allowing Israel to control population movement and prevent Hamas from regrouping. This condition presents a major obstacle to a potential agreement, as it directly conflicts with Hamas's consistent demand for a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops.

Syria's government and Kurdish forces remain deadlocked on military integration plans

Following the latest round of talks, Syria's central government and Kurdish-led forces remain at odds over plans to merge their respective military units, according to a report in AP. The disagreement centers on the Damascus government's demand for the full integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the national army. In contrast, the Kurdish-led administration seeks a political settlement that would preserve their autonomy and recognize their forces within a decentralized state, rather than a complete dissolution under the central government's command. A US envoy confirmed the ongoing deadlock in the negotiations.

Death toll from earthquakes in Guatemala rises to 3

The death toll from a series of earthquakes in Guatemala has risen to three, as per a report in AP. Authorities confirmed the third death on Wednesday following more than 150 earthquakes and aftershocks that have shaken the country since Tuesday afternoon, with magnitudes ranging from 3.0 to 5.7. The seismic activity has caused crumbled walls and roads blocked by landslides. President Bernardo Arévalo confirmed the latest victim was a woman buried by debris south of the capital.

South Korea issues arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk-yeol

An arrest warrant has been issued for South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol in connection with his attempted declaration of martial law in December 2024, as per a report in Al Jazeera. The martial law declaration was swiftly overturned by the National Assembly. President Yoon, who has not been impeached, remains in office.

Ship attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels sinks in the Red Sea

A Liberian-flagged cargo ship sank in the Red Sea on Wednesday following a previous attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels, AP says in a report. A European naval force in the Mideast stated that only six of the 25 people who had been on board have been rescued. This marks the first instance of a vessel being completely sunk as a result of the ongoing Houthi campaign against maritime trade in the region. The initial attack on the ship, which occurred in February 2024, killed at least three crew members and forced the crew to abandon the vessel, which had been adrift until it sank.

Trump promises West African leaders a pivot from aid to trade

President Donald Trump hosted the leaders of Liberia, Senegal, Gabon, Mauritania, and Guinea-Bissau at the White House, promising a U.S. policy pivot from foreign aid to trade, as per a report in AP. Stating that he sees "great economic potential in Africa," Trump's meeting comes as the region is affected by cuts in U.S. aid. The West African leaders reportedly praised the U.S. president, highlighted their nations' natural resources, and thanked him for assistance in settling a long-running conflict involving Rwanda.

US sanctions UN official over Gaza probe and hosts African leaders amid aid concerns

The US has sanctioned a UN official investigating human rights in Gaza and the West Bank, while President Donald Trump hosted African leaders amid concerns over potential aid cuts, according to a report in AP. The State Department imposed the sanctions on the official investigating abuses in the Palestinian territories. During a media session, Trump also commented on a Gaza ceasefire agreement and answered questions regarding the past decision to pause weapons shipments to Ukraine.

Human rights situation in China deteriorates a decade after '709 crackdown'

A decade after the '709 crackdown' began on July 9, 2015, human rights lawyers and activists in China state that defending human rights has become nearly impossible, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. The nationwide campaign, which initially targeted over 300 legal professionals, has since expanded into a broader suppression of civil society affecting NGOs, academics, and journalists. This systematic effort has dismantled legal aid networks, led to the imprisonment and disbarment of prominent lawyers, and utilized pervasive digital surveillance, effectively eliminating the space for independent advocacy and undermining the rule of law.

Taiwan launches record military drills amid China threats

Taiwan has initiated its largest-ever military drills, a 10-day exercise designed to test the island's comprehensive response to a potential invasion by China, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. The annual Han Kuang exercises are notable this year for their scale and the unprecedented integration of civilian components, including firefighters, police, and civil society organizations. This approach is part of Taiwan's broader 'all-out defense' strategy, which aims to enhance societal resilience and bolster its deterrence capabilities amid sustained military pressure from Beijing.

Donald Trump to visit Scotland this summer with no meeting planned with King Charles

US President Donald Trump is scheduled for a private visit to his golf course in Scotland this summer, according to a report in Financial Times. The report specifies that during this personal trip, there are no plans for a meeting with King Charles.

NATO jets scrambled as Russia launches massive drone attack on Ukraine

NATO jets were scrambled as a defensive measure after Russia launched a massive overnight drone attack against Ukraine, with the northwestern city of Lutsk being a primary target, according to a report in Fox News. Ukraine's military reported that its air defense systems successfully eliminated hundreds of the incoming Russian drones. The scrambling of NATO aircraft is a standard procedure to monitor objects near the alliance's airspace and ensure border security, a measure that has been heightened since the conflict began.

Leila Aboulela wins PEN Pinter prize for writing on migration and faith

Sudanese author Leila Aboulela has won this year’s PEN Pinter prize for her literary work focusing on migration, faith, and the lives of women, as per a report in The Guardian. The prize is awarded annually to a writer who, in the words of the late playwright Harold Pinter, casts an "unflinching, unswerving" gaze on the world. Judges for the prize praised Aboulela for her focus on centering Muslim women in her narratives.

Syria and Israel reportedly open contacts over shared concern about Iran

Longtime adversaries Syria and Israel have recently opened contacts, reflecting a significant power shift in the Middle East driven by a shared antipathy for Iran, The New York Times says in a report. This development is based on the premise that both nations see Iran's growing influence as a threat. The contacts are understood to be indirect, back-channel communications focused on this shared strategic interest, rather than a move toward formal diplomatic normalization. This potential realignment occurs as Israel continues its military actions against Iranian assets within Syria, while the Syrian government itself may be seeking to balance its heavy reliance on Tehran.

Genetic study charts 37,000-year history of disease in Europe and Asia

A new genetic study has charted the 37,000-year history of 214 human diseases across ancient Europe and Asia, according to a report in The New York Times. Using advanced paleogenomics techniques to analyze ancient DNA, scientists mapped the rise and prevalence of genetic markers associated with various illnesses over millennia. The research offers new insights into the health challenges faced by ancient populations and how disease pressures may have shaped human evolution and migration across the continents.

Russia launches record missile and drone attack on Ukraine as President Trump criticizes Putin

Russia has conducted a record single-night barrage of missiles and drones against Ukraine, an attack that underscores the nation's critical need for advanced weaponry and munitions, as per a report in The New York Times. The large-scale assault places immense strain on Ukraine's already stretched air defense systems and depletes its limited stock of interceptor missiles. The event coincided with a statement from U.S. President Donald Trump, who publicly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for the attack.

Climate satellite MethaneSat likely unrecoverable after losing power

MethaneSat, a satellite designed to track global methane pollution, has lost power and is considered "likely not recoverable" by the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), according to a report in The Verge. The EDF, which developed the satellite, announced that mission operations have been unable to contact the satellite since June 20. The $88 million mission, supported by a $100 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund, was intended to spot methane leaks from oil and gas infrastructure to enhance industry accountability. Despite the loss, the EDF is working to process the data MethaneSat was able to gather since its launch in March of the previous year.