Overnight reports: North Macedonia drops US tariffs, seeks reciprocal action
It happened while you were sleeping. Here is what global agencies reported overnight from Monday to Tuesday.
The government of North Macedonia has announced a plan to abolish tariffs on imports from the United States, hoping for a similar move from the administration of Donald Trump. The information was conveyed by Finance Minister Gordana Dimitrieska Koczoska. The decision to lift tariffs by North Macedonia still requires approval from parliament. This move is a response to a 33% tariff imposed by the US on Macedonian products, which is higher than the 20% tariff on goods from the European Union. The trade value between North Macedonia and the US amounted to approximately $314 (CAD 431) million last year, of which $100 (CAD 140) million was Macedonian exports to the US. Foreign Minister Timcho Mucunski spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the possibility of a free trade agreement between the countries.
Ukraine attacks occupied territories
Overnight, Ukraine launched about 200 drones towards the occupied regions, causing serious power supply disruptions in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions controlled by Russia. An electrical substation in occupied Melitopol was also attacked. The occupation authorities announced a lack of electricity and cell phone connectivity in five districts of the left-bank Kherson region.
Attempted coup in Serbia
The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, revealed that the country has been dealing with a "well-organized attempt at a coup," involving all state institutions. Various sectors were involved in these actions, from education to healthcare and power plants. Vučić met with representatives of the students who have been blocking more than 60 departments across the country since December.
Earthquake in Greece
A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 5.8 struck the border region of Greece and Turkey. The tremors were felt in southern Greece and western Turkey. The epicentre was located about 18 km from the island of Rhodes, at a depth of 67 km. Although no serious injuries or damages were reported, authorities remain on alert for potential aftershocks.
