Defence ministers of 'coalition of willing' meet in Brussels, discuss bolstering Ukraine forces

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In Europe, defense ministers of 31 nations convened in Brussels to discuss the formation of a multinational force aimed at supporting Ukraine. The so-called "coalition of the willing," led by the United Kingdom and France, aims to establish a framework for ensuring lasting peace in the region.

On Thursday local time, at the NATO headquarters in Brussels, the defense ministers deliberated on creating a "reassurance force" for Ukraine, in the event of a future ceasefire with Russia.

The proposed force is envisioned to comprise of between 10,000 and 30,000 troops, stationed away from active front lines.

However, uncertainties remain over the role of the United States.

While the U.S. did not participate in the Brussels meeting, European ministers underscored the importance of American Support.

Meanwhile, in the United States, a helicopter carrying a family from Spain crashed in New York City's Hudson River, resulting in the deaths of all six individuals on board, including the pilot.

On Thursday afternoon, local time, at 3:17 PM, a Bell 206 helicopter operated by New York Helicopters crashed into the Hudson River near Lower Manhattan.

The aircraft carried a Spanish family of two adults and three children, along with the pilot.

Eyewitnesses observed the helicopter breaking apart mid-air before crashing upside-down into the water.

The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have begun investigations into the cause of the crash.

Mayor Eric Adams extended condolences to the victims' families, describing the incident as "heartbreaking and tragic."

On Saturday night, April 12, a full Pink Moon that is smaller and fainter will be visible in the April spring night sky.

The so-called "micromoon," the smallest and faintest in 2025, occurs when the Moon is at its farthest point from Earth, approximately 406-thousand-six kilometers away.

According to NASA, the micromoon will be up to 14% smaller and around 30% dimmer than a supermoon.

Despite its name, which originates from the seasonal bloom of pink wildflowers in early spring, the Pink Moon won't appear pink.

Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.