U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday proposed a 10% tariff on an island with no people and lots of penguins, sparking a flurry of memes that have been going viral on the Internet.

One widely shared image on Thursday showed a penguin in place of Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office during his recent row with the U.S. president and Vice President JD Vance.

Another meme showed U.S. First Lady Melania Trump gazing up at an emperor penguin -- in place of former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau -- while Trump looks askance.

Trump's announcement of worldwide tariffs certainly received an icy reception in many countries.

But there has also been bafflement about why some of the most remote parts of the world have been targeted.

A case in point: why would Trump slap 10% tariffs on all exports from the Heard and McDonald Islands, a barren sub-Antarctic Australian territory without a human population, but four different species of penguin?

"The penguins have been ripping us off for years," Anthony Scaramucci, who was Trump's former communications chief for 11 days in his first term and is now a vocal critic, joked on X.

"Donald Trump slapped tariffs on penguins and not on Putin," posted U.S. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, referring to the fact that Russia was not on the U.S. tariff list.


A group of penguins. Illustration photo by Pexels

The White House said sanctions on Russia over President Vladimir Putin's war only meant that there was no "meaningful" trade on which to impose tariffs.

Trump also caused puzzlement with his 29% tariff on Norfolk Island, a tiny Australian territory in the Pacific with a population of a little over 2,000 humans.

"I'm not quite sure that Norfolk Island, with respect to it, is a trade competitor with the giant economy of the United States," Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

Britain's remote Falkland Islands -- home to one million penguins, and most famous for a 1982 war fought by Britain to repel Argentinian invaders -- was hit by 41% exports even though the U.K. only faces 10%.

Trump's tariffs have however been no laughing matter for global markets, with U.S. stocks suffering their worst day since the Covid pandemic in 2020.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping new tariffs have sparked outrage across the globe, from China and the EU to India, Canada and beyond.



Here's how the world's biggest economies are responding, from threats of countermeasures to warnings of a global trade war.

China

Beijing said it "firmly opposes" the new tariffs on its exports, and vowed "countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests."

Trump unveiled particularly stinging tariffs of 34% on China, one of its largest trading partners, while a 10% base tariff on all countries also applies. That comes on top of a 20% rate imposed last month.

The tariffs "do not comply with international trade rules," China's Commerce Ministry said.

It urged Washington to "immediately cancel" them, warning they "endanger global economic development."

European Union

The tariffs are a "major blow to the world economy," warned EU chief Ursula von der Leyen.

"There seems to be no order in the disorder. No clear path through the complexity and chaos that is being created as all U.S. trading partners are hit," she said.

After the 20% tariffs on EU exports to the United States, she said Brussels was "preparing for further countermeasures" but added it was "not too late to address concerns through negotiations."

Germany

The German Automotive Industry Association said the tariffs would "only create losers" and urged the EU to act "with necessary force, while continuing to signal its willingness to negotiate."

The German chemical industry, which counts the United States as its largest export market, urged the EU to "keep a cool head," stressing "an escalation would only worsen the damage."

Japan

Trade minister Yoji Muto said the 24% tariffs on Japanese exports to the United States were "extremely regrettable, and I have again strongly urged (Washington) not to apply them to Japan."

Japan's chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters the tariffs may contravene World Trade Organization rules and the pair's trade treaty.

India

Ajay Sahai, chief executive of the Federation of Indian Export Organizations, told AFP the tariffs will "hurt demand" for its exports.

"The tariffs slapped on India are definitely both high and higher than expected," he said.

But he said competitor nations like China and Vietnam had been hit harder, which opened up space for India to gain a market share.

U.K.

The U.K. will "remain calm, and committed" to sealing a trade deal with the United States which could help "mitigate" a 10% percent tariff imposed on British exports to the United States, business minister Jonathan Reynolds said.

However, "we have a range of tools at our disposal and we will not hesitate to act," he added.

France

President Emmanuel Macron will meet representatives of French sectors "impacted by the tariff measures," his office said.

Italy

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the new U.S. tariffs on imports from the EU and urged a deal, warning a trade war would "inevitably weaken the West."

"The introduction by the U.S. of tariffs towards the EU is a measure that I consider wrong and that does not suit either party," she said.

Canada

Prime Minister Mark Carney warned the tariffs will "fundamentally change the global trading system."

"We are going to fight these tariffs with countermeasures. We are going to protect our workers," he said.

Brazil

Brazil's Congress approved a so-called "Economic Reciprocity Law" allowing the executive to respond to the 10% tariffs on exports from Latin America's biggest economy, which is the second-largest exporter of steel to the United States after Canada.

South Korea

"A global tariff war has become a reality," said acting president Han Duck-soo following Trump's 25% tariffs on imports from South Korea.

Han convened an emergency task force and vowed to mobilize "all government resources" to overcome the "trade crisis," urging ministers to minimize the damage through aggressive negotiations with Washington.

Australia

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the new tariffs were "not the act of a friend" and would hurt the close allies' relationship.

"These tariffs are not unexpected, but let me be clear: they are totally unwarranted," he said.

Switzerland

After Switzerland was hit with 31% tariffs, President Karin Keller-Sutter said the government would quickly decide on the next steps.

"The country's long-term economic interests are the priority. Respect for international law and free trade are fundamental," she said.

Poland

"Friendship means partnership. Partnership means really and truly reciprocal tariffs," said Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
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Vietnam has declared a two-day national mourning period from April 4 to 5 to honor the memory of Khamtay Siphandone, former President of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee, in recognition of the two countries' special relationship.

The national mourning announcement was released by the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, the National Assembly, the State President, the Government, and the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee.

During this time, government offices and public institutions nationwide, along with Vietnam's representative bodies abroad, will fly flags at half-mast with mourning bands as prescribed. Public entertainment and celebratory events will be suspended.


Former President of Laos, Khamtay Siphandone. Photo by VNA

Born on Feb. 8, 1924, Khamtay Siphandone, who also served as Lao State President, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of National Defense, passed away at 10:30 a.m. on April 2.

A pioneering leader in the Lao revolutionary movement, he played a crucial role in securing the ultimate victory of the Lao revolution and guiding the country toward socialism. He was a close and trusted friend of Vietnam who made significant contributions to strengthening and developing the two countries' great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation.

His passing is an immense loss for Laos and the Vietnam – Laos relationship, according to the announcement.
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Vietnam needs proactive diplomacy and strategic import policy changes to navigate a 46% tariff on its exports to the U.S., says trade expert.


Vietnam’s key export sectors, including seafood, face mounting challenges following the U.S. tariff hike. Photo: Hoang Ha

In response to the U.S. government’s recent imposition of a 46% retaliatory tariff on Vietnamese exports, economic expert Dr. Le Quoc Phuong believes the Vietnamese government should push for further negotiations and show goodwill by reducing import tariffs on American goods to help balance bilateral trade.

‘We acted swiftly - but the U.S. acted even faster’

In an interview with VietNamNet, Dr. Le Quoc Phuong, former Deputy Director of the Center for Industry and Trade Information under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, shared his insights on the new U.S. tariff measures.

“The Trump 2.0 administration made it clear even before taking office that import tariffs would be a key policy weapon. True to form, President Donald Trump moved quickly after inauguration, issuing sweeping tariff hikes on goods from various countries,” Phuong explained.

The April 3 announcement marks the most aggressive move yet, applying new tariffs across all U.S. imports.

Vietnam is among the most affected, as the U.S. is its largest export market. In 2024, Vietnam exported nearly USD 120 billion worth of goods to the U.S., accounting for 29.5% of total export turnover. Meanwhile, imports from the U.S. remain relatively low, creating a large trade surplus. In that context, the U.S. decision was foreseeable - but the 46% rate still came as a shock.

Phuong noted that the Vietnamese government had been proactive. In mid-March, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien visited the U.S. as the Prime Minister’s special envoy, offering numerous commitments to boost American imports. Major Vietnamese conglomerates signed business agreements with U.S. firms totaling over USD 90.3 billion, scheduled for implementation starting in 2025.

On March 31, the Vietnamese government issued Decree No. 73 reducing import tariffs on several items, including U.S. goods like wood products, chicken, apples, cherries, LNG, ethanol, soybeans, and more.

On April 1, the Ministry of Industry and Trade formed a Drafting Committee to develop new regulations on Vietnam’s strategic trade control. A draft decree was published the same day to solicit feedback.

“These steps show the government’s urgency and resolve. But the U.S. acted faster,” Phuong remarked.

Most affected industries

The hardest-hit sectors will be those with the largest export volumes to the U.S. - electronics, phones, computers, and components, which are dominated by foreign direct investment (FDI) companies. Others include seafood, furniture, textiles, footwear, and agricultural products, all of which heavily rely on the U.S. market.

What Vietnam can do

Phuong stressed that Vietnam is not in a position to retaliate as aggressively as the EU, China, or Canada due to its smaller economy and deep dependence on the U.S. market.

“Negotiation is essential,” he said. “We should also consider further lowering import duties on U.S. goods - quickly. Since Vietnamese and American products are more complementary than competitive, the impact on domestic production would be minimal.”

Phuong argued that import tariff reductions, though costly in the short term, are a worthwhile sacrifice to reduce trade tensions. Supporting policies for affected Vietnamese businesses will also be key.

Survival strategies for Vietnamese businesses

Phuong emphasized that despite global instability, the U.S. remains an irreplaceable market for Vietnamese exporters. However, businesses now need to renegotiate with American partners so that both sides share the tax burden.

“If buyers stop importing, they’ll face production delays. But if they import without raising prices, Vietnamese suppliers can’t absorb the costs. The only solution is to sit down and negotiate mutually acceptable terms.”

Enterprises must accept that profit margins will shrink. In the meantime, they should streamline operations, cut costs, and conserve raw materials to stay afloat.

“I believe the U.S. is also watching how Vietnam responds. If we show good faith by reducing tariffs and increasing imports, Washington may lower the tariff in the future. The real question is: how far can we go?”


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The recently announced U.S. tariff hikes are poised to deliver a major economic blow to several Asian nations, many of which depend heavily on exports to the American market. Experts warn that these trade barriers could shrink national GDPs, disrupt supply chains, and push countries into rethinking their global economic strategies.

China
As the world’s second-largest economy, China is set to face a dramatic increase in trade friction with the United States. The newly implemented tariffs will soon push China’s overall tariff exposure to 54%, following an earlier 20% tariff announcement earlier this year.

When accounting for all contributing factors and categories, the average tariff on Chinese exports to the U.S. is expected to reach around 76%, according to Chad Brown, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and former State Department chief economist during the final year of the Biden administration.

This sharp rise in trade barriers is estimated to cause a 0.27% contraction in China’s GDP, translating to a staggering $53 billion in economic losses, according to calculations by Professor Niven Winchester of Auckland University of Technology.

Experts like Ruby Osman from the Tony Blair Institute point out that while these tariffs will hurt Chinese firms, it is Trump’s broader trade policy across Asia that could pose the greatest long-term challenges.

In response to the tariffs, China’s Commerce Ministry issued a strongly worded statement urging the U.S. to reverse the decision and threatening reciprocal measures. The ministry emphasized that the move undermines years of balanced trade negotiations and ignores the significant benefits the U.S. has historically gained from free international trade.

Jens Eskelund, president of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China, observed that many multinational companies have already adapted their supply chains to navigate ongoing U.S.-China tensions. However, further restructuring in light of these tariffs would not be feasible in the short term.

While China may pivot to alternative markets to make up for lost U.S. demand, experts agree that no other country can rival the scale and purchasing power of the American consumer market, where Chinese firms have typically exported over $400 billion in goods annually.

Still, William Hurst, a professor at the University of Cambridge, downplayed the long-term effects, noting that U.S. exports now make up a smaller slice of China’s total trade. He added that the current situation might encourage China to deepen its trade relations with Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa.

Vietnam
Vietnam is expected to take a heavier hit than China, with an estimated 46% tariff rate on exports to the U.S. This steep increase could inflict economic damage of nearly 1% of GDP, roughly $5 billion in losses. On a personal level, it equates to a loss of around $196 per household.

The United States imposed this level of tariff on Vietnam partly due to its growing trade imbalance with the country. In 2024, the U.S. trade deficit with Vietnam topped $123 billion, according to figures cited by the White House.

In response, Vietnamese officials called the tariffs “unfair,” pointing out that the average tariff rate Vietnam imposes on American imports is just 9.4%—far lower than what it now faces from the U.S.

Singapore
Despite being hit with a relatively low 10% baseline tariff, Singapore’s economy is expected to feel a disproportionate impact due to its unique status as a regional financial and export hub.

Singapore’s Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong expressed disappointment over the tariffs, especially given that Singapore holds a free trade agreement with the United States and actually runs a trade deficit with the U.S. In 2024, the U.S. enjoyed a $2.8 billion trade surplus with Singapore—a massive 85% jump from the year before.

Gan noted that the government is now reassessing its economic forecasts in light of the new trade environment. He expressed hope that diplomatic dialogue could resolve the situation, though he acknowledged that negotiations would be challenging without specific U.S. concerns to address.

Economists remain cautious about the scope of future tariffs, with analysts like Chua Hak Bin of Maybank warning that exemptions for key sectors like pharmaceuticals and semiconductors may not last. These industries are critical to Singapore’s manufacturing and export economy, and could be targeted later this year.

Trade policy expert Deborah Elms also raised concerns about the indirect effects of the tariffs, noting that Chinese firms pushed out of the U.S. market might flood other countries with low-cost goods, potentially igniting new waves of protectionism or retaliatory tariffs.

Other ASEAN Countries
Across the broader Southeast Asian region, the situation is similarly grim. According to DBS Bank economist Philip Wee, many emerging economies are being hit with reciprocal tariffs at alarmingly high rates.

Cambodia, which already struggles with high poverty rates (17.8% of the population lives below the poverty line), faces the steepest tariff rate in the region at 49%.

Laos follows closely with a 48% tariff, despite an 18.3% poverty rate and significant reliance on export-led growth.

Myanmar, grappling with the aftermath of a recent earthquake and years of civil conflict, is now burdened with 44% tariffs.

Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, faces a 32% rate.

Thailand, the second-largest, will now contend with a 36% rate.

Economists from OCBC, including Selina Ling and regional experts Lavanya Venkateswaran, Ahmad A. Enver, and Jonathan Ng, warn that this may only be the beginning of a broader trade war. They expect that further negotiations, retaliatory measures, and policy escalations are likely in the months ahead.

Princeton's US grants frozen, follows Trump actions against other schools


A woman walks by Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs is seen in Princeton, New Jersey, Nov. 20, 2015. Photo by Reuters

Princeton University said on Tuesday the U.S. government froze several dozen research grants to the school, which became the latest academic institution targeted by the Trump administration in a crackdown on what it calls antisemitism on campuses.

Princeton President Chris Eisgruber said government agencies including NASA and the defense and energy departments notified the university of the move. The university said in a statement it was given no reason for the action and it did not provide a dollar value for the grants.

The Trump administration has threatened to slash federal funding for universities over their alleged tolerance of antisemitism and over accusations of failure to protect Jewish students during pro-Palestinian protests.

"We are committed to fighting antisemitism and all forms of discrimination, and we will cooperate with the government in combating antisemitism. Princeton will also vigorously defend academic freedom and the due process rights of this university," Eisgruber said in the statement.

A Department of Energy spokesperson said the agency "paused grant funding to Princeton University pending the completion of the Department of Education's investigation into Princeton regarding antisemitic harassment." The Education Department, last month, sent a letter to 60 universities, including Princeton, warning it could bring enforcement actions against them.

The other federal agencies had no immediate comment.

Protesters, including some Jewish groups, say President Donald Trump's administration wrongly conflates their criticism of Israel's military campaign in Gaza and advocacy for Palestinian rights with antisemitism and support for Hamas militants.

The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered in October 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

Israel's subsequent military assault on Hamas-governed Gaza has killed over 50,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials, while also triggering accusations of genocide and war crimes that Israel denies. The assault has internally displaced nearly Gaza's entire 2.3 million population and caused a hunger crisis.

The Trump administration is also reviewing $9 billion in federal contracts and grants awarded to Harvard University.

Last month, it canceled $400 million in federal funding for Columbia University, which had been the epicenter of pro-Palestinian campus protests.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have detained some foreign student protesters in recent weeks and are working to deport them.

The Trump administration has also targeted schools over other culture war issues like diversity, equity and inclusion programs and suspended $175 million in funding to the University of Pennsylvania over transgender sports policies.

Rights advocates have also raised concerns about Islamophobia and anti-Arab bias. The Trump administration has not announced steps in response.

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Chinese EV maker Xiaomi said it would cooperate with a police investigation into a fatal crash involving one of its cars which had been in autonomous mode just before the accident.

Three college students died on Saturday night after their Xiaomi SU7 hit a concrete barrier on a section of the Dezhou-Shangrao Expressway in eastern Anhui province.

Before the crash, the vehicle was in Xiaomi's Navigate On Autopilot (NAO) assisted driving mode, traveling at 116 kilometers per hour (72 miles per hour), according to a company statement posted online.

While travelling on a highway section with roadworks, the vehicle detected an obstacle ahead, issued a warning, and handed control to the driver, Xiaomi said.

But seconds later, the vehicle hit a barrier at around 97 km/h.

Footage posted online showed a car in flames on the highway and later the burned-out wreckage.

Xiaomi founder Lei Jun said in a social media post late Tuesday that he was "heavy-hearted" and that his company would "continue to cooperate with the police investigation."

Since the crash, many online have questioned Xiaomi's assisted driving functions, why the car caught fire, and whether the doors could be opened in an emergency.

On the X-like Weibo, an account identified by the platform and local media as the driver's mother accused Xiaomi of failing to contact her and "not taking the lives of three kids seriously."

"As family members, we have many questions. Why did the vehicle catch fire after hitting the barrier?... We just want an explanation," the woman wrote.


A red button in a Xiaomi car that is supposed to enabled emergency door opening. Photo courtesy of Xiaomi

Xiaomi, a consumer electronics giant selling goods from smartphones to vacuum cleaners, launched the SU7 in March 2024 as it entered the auto sector.

It sold more than 200,000 units in its first year, with the standard model priced at around 210,000 yuan ($28,900).

The company's share price has fallen around 5% since the accident.

China's EV companies are world leaders in assisted driving technology. Xiaomi says cars using its intelligent driving system can overtake and change lanes on the highway, though it cautions that it is not a replacement for drivers.

Xiaomi said it had sent a team to investigate the crash and tried to contact the victims' families through local authorities.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

Lawyer reveals three major financial sources - including frozen accounts and seized assets - available for restitution in SCB bond scandal.


Defendant Truong My Lan. Photo: Nguyen Hue

In addition to her criminal sentence, Truong My Lan has been ordered to repay more than 30.092 trillion VND (approximately $1.22 billion USD) to victims and related parties, according to the first-instance verdict in the SCB bond fraud case (phase two). The question many are asking is: Where will this massive sum come from?

At the ongoing appeals trial in Ho Chi Minh City, lawyer Giang Hong Thanh - defending Truong My Lan - shared insights with VietNamNet about the financial sources currently available for restitution.

Over 24 trillion VND already secured

According to Official Letter No. 1948/CTHADS-NV2, issued by the Ho Chi Minh City Civil Judgment Enforcement Department on March 24, 2025, there are three primary sources of money identified:

Over 8.659 trillion VND already sits in enforcement accounts or frozen bank accounts.

More than 15.383 trillion VND is owed to Truong My Lan by various individuals and organizations.

In total, more than 24.043 trillion VND in liquid and receivable assets have been tracked so far.

Additional assets worth over 10 trillion VND

The court also ordered the seizure of various shares and real estate assets belonging to Truong My Lan, valued at over 10 trillion VND, to ensure compliance with the verdict.

Another significant source is the 15.712 trillion VND associated with the An Dong bond issuance, which has been partially disbursed to six financial institutions. If fully recovered under Articles 106 (Criminal Procedure Code) and 47 (Penal Code), this amount could significantly accelerate compensation to victims.

Lawyer Giang Hong Thanh estimates that these three sources combined may exceed 50 trillion VND (over $2 billion USD), enough to cover all restitution claims if properly recovered.

Lan challenges court findings but vows to repay

At the appeals hearing, Truong My Lan reaffirmed her disagreement with the life sentence issued by the lower court. She maintained that she had no intent to defraud and pledged to repay all legitimate bondholders.

Lan specifically objected to the claim that she used deceptive tactics to issue 25 bond codes through four VTP Group subsidiaries: An Dong, Sunny World, Quang Thuan, and Setra. She insisted that 1.612 trillion VND related to bonds issued by SHB Bank should be excluded, claiming that SHB, not she, was responsible for that amount.

While the court holds her liable for over 30 trillion VND, Lan contends that her responsibility lies with about 28 trillion VND. Additionally, she noted that while 25,000 bondholders have requested repayment, over 10,000 have not, and asked the court to clarify this discrepancy.

Lan has requested the court and prosecutors mandate other individuals and organizations that benefited from the fraudulent bonds to cooperate in repaying affected citizens.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

Mica David Bass, 58, was wanted by U.S. authorities for murder. He fled to Vietnam and was captured just a day later by the police.



On March 28, the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Public Security announced that it had coordinated with relevant units to hand over Mica David Bass to the U.S. for further legal action.

Previously, on March 19, the Immigration Department received information that Mica David Bass had entered Vietnam. The suspect was a dangerous criminal being pursued by U.S. law enforcement for murder.

The Immigration Department immediately assigned its officers to investigate and locate the suspect. Thousands of incoming passengers were reviewed through surveillance cameras, and they eventually discovered that the suspect had moved into the city center. Meanwhile, another team identified a potential hotel address in Hoan Kiem District where the suspect might be staying.

At 11:45 p.m. on the same day, officers saw a man resembling Mica David Bass dining at a restaurant in central Hoan Kiem District. He later moved to a hotel in Hang Bac Ward. The officers secretly monitored his movements throughout the night, waiting for the right moment to arrest him. "The police couldn’t make an immediate arrest because the area was crowded, with many foreign tourists. Additionally, the suspect was very dangerous, having committed criminal offenses, used illegal weapons, and had a history of resistance," an official from the Immigration Department said.

On the morning of March 20, the police noticed the suspect preparing to leave and formulated a plan to apprehend him. Around 10 a.m., the operation team from the Immigration Department, along with other units, successfully arrested the suspect at the hotel.


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A suspect with a history of criminal offenses was detained after holding a nine-year-old girl hostage on a rooftop in Bac Ninh Province.

On March 27, Tran Trung Kien, Chairman of the Phuong Mao Ward People's Committee (Que Vo Town, Bac Ninh Province), informed VietNamNet reporters that around 4 a.m., a young man suspected of being under the influence of drugs entered a local house and took a young girl hostage with a knife.

The victim, born in 2016, is the daughter of a family running a roadside bakery on Highway 18. The family had opened the door early in the morning when the suspect entered and sat inside. After moving to the second floor and finding the child asleep, the suspect took her to the roof of an adjacent one-story building.

The family immediately reported the incident to local authorities, and by 8 a.m., the suspect had been subdued.

"The Bac Ninh Provincial Police and local authorities successfully restrained the suspect and rescued the girl. The victim was in a state of shock and was taken to the hospital for a health check-up," said Chairman Kien.

Dramatic rescue of 9-year-old girl held hostage with a knife


The suspect, Phan Van Tuan, being restrained by the authorities.

Colonel Pham Van Ngu, Head of the Criminal Police Division of Bac Ninh Provincial Police, revealed that the suspect, later identified as Phan Van Tuan (born May 6, 1983, in Hai Phong), had three prior criminal convictions. Tuan was confirmed to have been under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident.

According to Colonel Ngu, Tuan entered the house at around 4 a.m. and used two knives to take the girl, identified as Tran Thi T., hostage on the second floor. Tuan demanded money and a motorbike to escape. The Criminal Police Division reported the situation to the provincial police chief, who personally arrived at the scene to oversee the rescue.

After four hours of negotiation and distraction, officers offered the suspect money and a motorbike to encourage him to move from the second floor. As he descended with the girl - still holding a knife to her neck - officers maintained communication to divert his attention. When Tuan briefly moved the knife away from the girl’s neck while approaching the vehicle, officers seized the opportunity to subdue him and free the hostage.

Suspect’s criminal history and related incidents

Preliminary investigations revealed that Tuan had a criminal record, including two convictions for unlawful detention and one for illegal drug possession.

The previous night, at around 11 p.m. on March 26, Tuan had caused a disturbance at Co Thanh Ward Health Station in Chi Linh City, Hai Duong Province, while wielding two knives. He threatened medical staff and then forced a passerby to give him a ride to Bac Ninh. When they reached Viet Hung Ward, Que Vo District, the victim spotted a police patrol and drove toward them, yelling for help. Tuan abandoned the motorbike and fled to a nearby eatery, where he stole another motorbike from a customer and continued his escape.

Eventually, Tuan reached the house of Tran Thanh Hai in Phuong Mao Ward, where he took the young girl hostage, leading to the dramatic morning standoff.

The case is currently under investigation.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

The mother who raised her cerebral palsy child to become a Harvard talent is an inspiring figure whose story touches the hearts of everyone who hears it. It is a testament to the extraordinary power of a mother’s love.



We are fortunate to have children who are intelligent, healthy, and whole. Let us treat this as a privilege that not everyone is blessed with. Therefore, despite the challenges in life, we must push forward to raise our children to succeed and have a bright future. Certainly, the pressures of life can exhaust and discourage us. When you feel you’ve lost motivation and patience with your child, think of Nguyen Thi Mai, a mother from Vietnam who raised her cerebral palsy son to become a Harvard talent.

Mai gave birth to a son, whom she named Minh Khoa. Immediately after birth, doctors informed the family that the child had severe cerebral palsy and would likely grow up mentally disabled, possibly bedridden. While the father turned away, Mai did not give up. She worked tirelessly to provide for and raise her son, never losing hope that Minh Khoa could develop normally like any other child.

The incredible love of a mother turned what seemed impossible into reality. From a child with a brain disorder, Mai raised Minh Khoa into a talented student with impressive academic achievements:

In 2007, Minh Khoa passed the entrance exam to the Vietnam National University with a score of 660.

In 2011, Minh Khoa became a student at the Graduate School of International Law at Vietnam National University.

In 2016, Minh Khoa became a student at Harvard Law School.

People still wonder what secret Nguyen Thi Mai had to raise a cerebral palsy child into a talented student. In fact, her success came from a simple but profound approach to education, one that required love and perseverance. Here are the three principles that helped Mai raise Minh Khoa into a Harvard student.

1. Always Be a Strong Support for Your Child

Mai took on the full responsibility of both providing for and raising her child. To ensure her income, she took on multiple jobs at once. However, she always found time to monitor her son’s studies and well-being.

Once, noticing that her son seemed unhappy and wanted to quit school, she asked him about it and learned that Minh Khoa was being bullied by classmates because of his condition. She immediately went to the school, spoke with the teachers and classmates, and from then on, Minh Khoa was no longer looked down upon. He gained confidence and worked harder in his studies. After some time, his classmates highly respected him for his academic excellence, and Minh Khoa often led the class.

2. Cultivate Your Child’s Inner Strength

When Minh Khoa was young, he completed tasks much slower than other children his age. However, Mai always let him do things on his own, not intervening too much in his activities. Due to his physical limitations, even basic tasks like holding chopsticks and a pen took him a year to master, but his mother never stopped encouraging him every day.

As Minh Khoa grew and went to school, Mai continued to encourage him to complete his homework independently and take initiative in his learning. Mai observed him from a distance, only stepping in when absolutely necessary. Thanks to this approach, Minh Khoa always had the chance to develop his potential in every situation.

3. Teach Your Child Patience and Never Give Up

One of the most important lessons Mai taught her son was that anything can be accomplished with perseverance. Despite the immense pressure on her shoulders as a single mother, she never gave up on her son.

While other children could roll over at three months and sit at seven months, Minh Khoa could not sit steadily until he was one year old. Even when he reached preschool age, he couldn’t walk properly. At three years old, Mai started therapy for him, giving him massages twice a week for three years. Thanks to this, his health improved significantly.

Mai has always been a role model for her son, helping Minh Khoa understand that with patience, he could reach his goal. Even though he might be slower than his peers, if he worked hard every day, his efforts would be rewarded. This is one of the guiding principles that helped Mai raise a cerebral palsy child into a Harvard talent.


VietBF@ Sưu tập

Woman drowns her dog in airport bathroom after being denied boarding, police say


Travelers wait in line for security in the east hall atrium at Orlando International Airport. Photo by AP

A woman drowned her dog in a Florida airport bathroom and then boarded her international flight after she was prevented from bringing the white miniature schnauzer with her because of a paperwork issue, authorities said.

The woman was arrested in Lake County on Wednesday on a charge of aggravated animal abuse, a third-degree felony. She was released on $5,000 bail.

"This act was intentional and resulted in a cruel and unnecessary death of the animal," said an arrest affidavit from the Orlando Police Department.

Online court records showed no attorney listed for the woman from Kenner, Louisiana.

The investigation into the death of the 9-year-old schnauzer named Tywinn started in December when a janitor found the dog in a trash bag in a bathroom stall at Orlando International Airport.

The janitor earlier had seen the woman in the stall cleaning up water and dog food from the stall's floor. The janitor was pulled away for a cleanup emergency and returned to the bathroom 20 minutes later where she found Tywinn in the trash container, along with a companion vest, collar, rabies tag, a dog travel bag and a bone-shaped dog tag with the woman's name and phone number, investigators said.

Airport surveillance cameras captured the woman speaking for 15 minutes to a Latam Airlines agent with the dog in tow, walking into a bathroom near the ticketing area with the dog and exiting the bathroom without Tywinn less than 20 minutes later. The woman then went outside the terminal building, reentered a short time later, passed through security and boarded the Colombia-bound plane, the report said.

Authorities said the woman had been told she could not bring her dog aboard because she did not have the proper paperwork. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, dogs traveling from the U.S. to Colombia must be accompanied by a veterinarian-issued health certificate and a rabies vaccination certificate.

The dog was identified by its implanted microchip and a necropsy determined that Tywinn had been drowned. U.S. Customs and Border Protection also confirmed to detectives that the woman had boarded a flight to Bogota, Colombia, and then flew to Ecuador.

VietBF@ Sưu tập

The claim that former U.S. President Donald Trump has revoked the security clearances of key political figures, including former President Joe Biden, former Vice President Kamala Harris, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, is not based on verified information. No credible reports or official announcements confirm that such actions have taken place.

The alleged move, which supposedly also targeted other prominent individuals such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and national security officials from previous administrations, would represent an unprecedented political maneuver. However, as of now, there is no evidence that Trump, who is not currently in office, has taken any such steps.

Historically, former presidents and high-ranking officials may retain security clearances to provide counsel on national security matters if requested by the sitting administration. While security clearances can be revoked under certain circumstances, these decisions typically follow established procedures rather than being used as political retribution.

It is crucial to rely on reputable news sources such as Reuters, BBC, or The Associated Press for accurate and up-to-date information on political and governmental developments. If this is a hypothetical scenario or a discussion about security clearance policies, feel free to clarify so we can explore the topic further.

Ambassador Vũ Lê Thái Hoàng, Việt Nam’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and international organisations in Vienna, Austria, has expressed his desire to strengthen ties with Interpol to enhance Việt Nam’s role as a member state and combat transnational crimes more effectively.

During a working session on Thursday with Floriane Bacconnier, Head of Interpol’s Permanent Observer Office to the UN, Hoàng reaffirmed Việt Nam’s commitment to international security. As the Chair of the Asia-Pacific Group at international organisations in Vienna, he emphasized Việt Nam’s willingness to act as a bridge to foster closer collaboration between Interpol and regional nations. He stressed that such efforts would contribute to maintaining peace, stability, security, and sustainable development.

Since joining Interpol in 1991, Việt Nam has leveraged the organisation’s global network to combat foreign-related and transnational crimes. Hoàng praised Interpol for facilitating the sharing of anti-crime intelligence, joint investigations, and the successful apprehension of international fugitives. Through this cooperation, Vietnamese authorities have worked closely with their global counterparts to address complex criminal cases.

Beyond enforcement efforts, Việt Nam has been proactive in collaborating with Interpol and other nations on training and capacity-building initiatives. These programmes aim to strengthen law enforcement capabilities and equip personnel with the necessary expertise to tackle transnational crimes more efficiently.

The ambassador also congratulated Interpol on its notable contributions to the fight against transnational organised crime, including terrorism and cybercrime. He acknowledged the organisation’s active role in drafting the UN Convention against Cybercrime, which is set to be opened for signing in Hà Nội later this year.

Bacconnier emphasized the essential role of permanent missions in fostering practical cooperation between Interpol and national law enforcement agencies. She expressed her hope for closer engagement with Việt Nam’s Permanent Mission to launch new initiatives aimed at enhancing partnerships between Interpol and Asia-Pacific countries, including Việt Nam.

She further noted that Interpol looks forward to Việt Nam successfully hosting the signing ceremony of the UN Convention against Cybercrime and anticipates its early implementation. The convention, she explained, recognises Interpol’s crucial role in promoting international cooperation by enabling the rapid and secure exchange of information on cybercrime and related offenses.

Vietnamese authorities have issued a cautionary notice for citizens studying and working in the United States, urging them to be vigilant about visa regulations, green card status, and entry-related procedures. This warning follows a series of deportation cases involving nationals from multiple countries.

Ambassador Hoàng Anh Tuấn, Consul General of Việt Nam’s Consulate General in San Francisco, shared the advisory on Facebook on Saturday. His message was directed at Vietnamese students, workers, residents, and individuals seeking to apply for US visas.

The advisory outlines several key precautions to help avoid complications with US immigration authorities.

Green card holders are reminded to ensure their residency documents remain valid, as an expired green card can result in re-entry denial. Even for those with a valid green card, unnecessary international travel is discouraged to minimize potential entry issues.

Social media activity is also highlighted as a potential risk. Individuals are advised to refrain from posting or sharing politically sensitive, discriminatory, or extremist content, including within private groups, as such material could be scrutinized.

Visa compliance is another major concern. Overstaying even by a single day could result in a five-year entry ban, and violating local laws—no matter how minor—may impact future visa renewals or re-entry into the US.

Authorities also caution against deleting sensitive information from electronic devices before entering the US, as border officers may interpret this as an attempt to hide evidence.

Another critical warning pertains to public demonstrations. Non-citizens are advised to avoid participating in protests or rallies, as such actions could be deemed an overreach of their visa privileges.

The Vietnamese Consulate General has recently recorded multiple cases of students, researchers, and residents—including green card holders—being denied entry, having their visas revoked, or facing deportation due to minor immigration infractions or perceived security concerns.

A notable case involved a French scientist who was barred from entering the US earlier this month while en route to a conference. Officials reviewed private messages on his phone that were critical of the Trump administration’s research policies, leading to his deportation. Although the case was later dropped, the expulsion severely impacted his career.

Similarly, an assistant professor and physician at Brown University was deported from Boston to Lebanon after border officials discovered photos of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on her phone. Despite her explanation that her connection was religious rather than political, authorities considered the images as evidence of Hezbollah support. Despite her strong credentials and professional backing, she was denied entry and sent back.

Vietnamese citizens planning to travel to the US are strongly advised to remain cautious and comply with all immigration regulations. In case of legal difficulties, individuals should contact Vietnamese diplomatic missions in the US for assistance and support.

Vietnam’s gold prices continued to decline on Saturday morning after reaching several record highs earlier in the week. Saigon Jewelry Company (SJC) gold bars dropped by 0.31%, falling to VND97.4 million ($3,803.95) per tael. This marks a nearly 3% decrease from the historic peak of VND100.4 million recorded on Thursday.

Gold ring prices have also experienced a notable drop, falling 2.4% in the same period to VND98.3 million per tael.

On the global market, gold fell by 1% on Friday as a stronger U.S. dollar and profit-taking triggered a pullback. Despite this decline, the precious metal remained on track for a third consecutive weekly gain due to ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainties, as well as expectations of potential U.S. Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.

Spot gold was down 1%, trading at $3,015.43 per ounce, while U.S. gold futures settled 0.7% lower at $3,021.40. However, bullion has still gained 1% over the course of the week.

Gold has long been considered a safe-haven investment during periods of geopolitical tension and economic instability. The metal typically performs well in low-interest-rate environments and has already hit 16 record highs this year, reaching an all-time peak of $3,057.21 per ounce on Thursday.

“The market is taking a bit of a breather. There’s some profit-taking at these levels, and the dollar is stronger today,” said Marex analyst Edward Meir.

Peter Grant, vice president and senior metals strategist at Zaner Metals, noted that “ongoing safe-haven demand, both based on trade concerns and geopolitical risks, continues to be the primary driving force” behind gold’s rally.

A woman from Kenner, Louisiana, has been arrested and charged with aggravated animal abuse after allegedly drowning her dog in an airport bathroom at Orlando International Airport. The incident took place in December when she was prevented from bringing the dog on an international flight due to missing paperwork.

A janitor discovered the white miniature schnauzer named Tywinn inside a trash bag in a bathroom stall. Earlier, the same janitor had seen the woman in the stall cleaning up water and dog food from the floor. The janitor left briefly for another cleaning emergency and returned about 20 minutes later, only to find the dog discarded in the trash. Also found in the stall were a companion vest, a collar with a rabies tag, a dog travel bag, and a bone-shaped dog tag with the woman’s name and phone number.

Surveillance footage captured the woman speaking to a Latam Airlines agent for 15 minutes, attempting to take the dog aboard. She was informed that she could not bring the animal because she lacked the required veterinary-issued health certificate and rabies vaccination certificate, both of which are necessary for traveling from the U.S. to Colombia.

After the airline refused her request, she walked into a nearby bathroom with the dog and exited alone less than 20 minutes later. She then briefly left the terminal, returned shortly after, passed through security, and boarded a flight to Bogotá, Colombia. Authorities later confirmed that she continued her journey to Ecuador.

The dog was identified via an implanted microchip, and a necropsy later confirmed that Tywinn had drowned. Orlando police described the act as intentional, stating that it resulted in a cruel and unnecessary death.

On Wednesday, the woman was arrested in Lake County, Florida, and charged with aggravated animal abuse, a third-degree felony. She was later released on a $5,000 bail.

Online court records currently show no attorney listed for her. If convicted, she could face significant legal consequences, as Florida has strict laws against animal cruelty.

Legal immigrants and green card holders in the U.S. can face deportation, particularly under the Trump administration's strict immigration policies, if they have a criminal record or are considered a threat to foreign policy.
The U.S. government is seeking to deport Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student arrested earlier this month by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after participating in pro-Palestinian protests. Khalil, 30, a legal U.S. resident without a criminal record, was detained overnight in New Jersey before being transferred to an immigration facility in Jena, Louisiana.

Initially, ICE planned to revoke Khalil's student visa based on instructions from the U.S. State Department but discovered he was also a lawful permanent resident. Consequently, ICE pursued revoking his green card instead, and he currently awaits a deportation hearing in Louisiana, according to the AP.

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed Khalil's detention was related to President Donald Trump's executive order aimed at combating antisemitism on college campuses. Khalil's arrest has drawn criticism, with opponents arguing he is unfairly targeted, raising questions about protections for international students and green card holders.

Jaclyn Kelley-Widmer, an immigration law professor at Cornell Law School, told AP that lawful permanent residents generally have robust protections and "should be the most protected short of a U.S. citizen." However, Kelley-Widmer emphasized that protection is not absolute; green card holders can be deported for crimes, failure to update addresses with immigration authorities, or fraudulent marriages.

In Khalil's case, the U.S. government claims authority to revoke his residency, obtained through marriage to a U.S. citizen. His deportation is pursued under Section 237 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, allowing removal if the Secretary of State determines a non-citizen's presence or activities could have "potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences" for the U.S., as reported by the Wall Street Journal.

While officials have not explicitly detailed how Khalil threatens U.S. foreign policy, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other Trump administration officials support deportation, accusing him of creating a hostile environment for Jewish students at Columbia University. Combatting antisemitism has been a prominent foreign policy objective for Trump's administration.

Khalil is not alone in facing deportation due to stricter immigration enforcement. Recently, multiple green card and visa holders have faced detention at U.S. entry points and prolonged stays in ICE facilities.

Rasha Alawieh, 34, a kidney transplant specialist at Brown University's medical school, was detained last week at Boston Logan International Airport after returning from Lebanon.

Her H-1B work visa issued by the U.S. consulate in Lebanon was revoked, and she was deported.

The Department of Homeland Security claimed on X on March 17 that Alawieh had "traveled to Beirut, Lebanon, to attend the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah," the leader of Hezbollah. Alawieh maintained that she only joined crowds outside the stadium where the funeral occurred and did not attend the ceremony inside, AFP reported, citing an unnamed family member.

In another incident, Fabian Schmidt, a 34-year-old German electrical engineer and green card holder residing in New Hampshire, was detained on March 7 at Boston Logan Airport upon returning from Europe. His mother alleged that CBP officers "violently interrogated" Schmidt and pressured him into signing away his green card, according to Boston public radio WGBH. Schmidt was transferred to an ICE detention center in Rhode Island.

Immigration officials cited Schmidt's prior marijuana possession charge from 2015 in California, before the state legalized recreational cannabis, as justification for deportation. Schmidt, who moved from Germany to the U.S. in 2008 and received his green card in 2009, missed a related court hearing in California because the summons was sent to his former address after he moved to New Hampshire in 2022. Schmidt believed the charge had been dismissed following cannabis decriminalization.

His family emphasized that Schmidt had turned his life around, building a stable engineering career and raising an 8-year-old daughter with his American partner, both U.S. citizens, according to WGBH. However, CBP officials argued that his prior drug-related offense warranted deportation.

Hilton Beckham, Assistant Commissioner of Public Affairs at CBP, refuted Schmidt's family’s allegations, telling Newsweek: "These claims [regarding Schmidt] are blatantly false with respect to CBP. When an individual is found with drug-related charges and tries to reenter the country, officers will take proper action."

Strict immigration enforcement under Trump has intensified scrutiny of green card and visa holders, sparking concerns about due process. Legal experts warn that expansive interpretations of immigration laws could result in deportations for minor infractions or subjective policy reasons.

Civil rights organizations and immigration attorneys continue to challenge the administration's actions, arguing many legal immigrants face unfair targeting.

Kripa Upadhyay, a Seattle-based immigration attorney, cautioned earlier this week in the Times of India that foreign nationals, especially those renewing H-1B or F-1 visas, should "really need to think twice" about international travel.

Ashwin Sharma, a Florida immigration lawyer, described incidents reported to the newspaper, where elderly Indian green card holders were allegedly pressured by CBP agents into signing Form I-407, voluntarily relinquishing their residency. Sharma noted some CBP officers intimidate travelers with threats of detention or deportation, despite only an immigration judge legally having authority to revoke a green card.

Immigration attorneys also report increased extensive questioning and detention for green card holders, advising them to pursue U.S. citizenship promptly. Those awaiting citizenship approval are advised against international travel until obtaining their American passports.

Lucas Sielaff, 25, from eastern Germany, shared his trouble after taking a short trip out of the U.S.

Sielaff told Der Spiegel magazine earlier this month, as reported by DW, that was detained for two weeks and deported back to Germany after visiting his American fiancée in Nevada. The couple had briefly traveled to Mexico to obtain veterinary care for her dog.

Upon returning, Sielaff faced intense interrogation. He believed the border officer assumed he was illegally residing in the U.S. and attempting to circumvent the 90-day visitation limit by briefly exiting the country.

A Russian national has been sentenced to 18 years in prison by the Binh Thuan People's Court in Vietnam after being found guilty of murdering a fellow countryman following a dispute over housing arrangements.

The Crime & Investigation
Roman Nikiforov, 41, was convicted on Friday for the killing of Vasilii Echushin, 45, a case that shocked the coastal tourism hotspot Ham Tien-Mui Ne, Binh Thuan Province, when Echushin’s body was discovered in a field in 2024.

Court records reveal that on January 30, 2024, the two men got into an argument after Echushin asked Nikiforov for help in finding a new rental apartment. Their current residence in Phan Thiet City was set to be sold, and Echushin hoped they would move together. However, Nikiforov stated that he planned to rent a new place for himself alone, which infuriated Echushin, leading him to accuse Nikiforov of deception and attempt to assault him.

Believing Echushin was reaching for a weapon, Nikiforov retaliated by striking him multiple times on the head with a hammer, resulting in Echushin’s death.

Cover-Up & Arrest
After the killing, Nikiforov wrapped the body in a bed sheet and discarded it in a field before meticulously cleaning the crime scene and disposing of the victim’s belongings.

However, his efforts to hide the crime were futile. Locals discovered the corpse two days later, prompting a police investigation that quickly identified Nikiforov as the prime suspect.

Trial & Verdict
During the trial, Nikiforov admitted to the crime and pleaded for leniency, but the court handed down a severe 18-year prison sentence due to the brutal nature of the killing.

The case highlights the dangers of violent disputes and serves as a stark reminder of how personal conflicts can escalate into deadly confrontations.

Vietnam made history by clinching its first-ever World Cup sepak takraw title in the women's quadrant category after a thrilling victory over Thailand, the dominant force in the sport.

The highly anticipated final saw two of the world’s strongest teams face off in an intense showdown. Thailand, the birthplace of sepak takraw, has long reigned as the sport’s powerhouse, while Vietnam entered the tournament with momentum, having won the 2023 world championship.

With a formidable lineup featuring Tran Thi Ngoc Yen, Nguyen Thi My, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Huyen, and Nguyen Thi Yen, the Vietnamese squad set the tone early, storming to a 5-0 lead and extending it to 8-1 in the first set. Although Thailand mounted a comeback, narrowing the gap to 12-14, Vietnam held firm to claim the opening set 15-12.

Thailand responded strongly in the second set, adjusting their strategy to seize an early 5-1 lead. The defending champions struggled to regain control, and Thailand ultimately secured the set 15-12, setting the stage for a decisive third set.

The final set was a thrilling back-and-forth battle, with neither team able to gain a decisive edge. As the tension in the arena grew, Vietnam edged ahead at 14-13 and sealed the championship point with a dramatic finish, clinching a historic 15-13 victory. The momentous win ended Thailand’s long-standing dominance and marked a new era for Vietnam in sepak takraw.

Road to the Championship
Vietnam’s journey to the title was marked by stellar performances throughout the tournament. The team defeated:
✅ Republic of Korea (2-0)
✅ Myanmar (2-1)
✅ France (2-0)

Meanwhile, in the men’s division, Vietnam delivered an impressive campaign but fell short in the final against Thailand, suffering a 1-15, 9-15 defeat. The team, however, secured a silver medal, a commendable achievement on the world stage.

ISTAF Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025
The ISTAF Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 is being held from March 20-25 at the Patliputra Indoor Stadium in Bihar, India, featuring over 300 athletes and trainers from 20 countries.

Athletes will compete in various categories, including:
🏆 Men’s & women’s regu (teams of three)
🏆 Doubles
🏆 Mixed team events

The Sport of Sepak Takraw
Often called "kick volleyball," sepak takraw is a high-energy sport where players use their feet, knees, chest, and head to hit a woven rattan or plastic ball over a net. With its spectacular aerial kicks and acrobatic moves, the sport demands exceptional skill, agility, and coordination.

Vietnam’s groundbreaking victory in the women’s quadrant event not only solidifies its place among the world’s elite teams but also signals a bright future for the nation in sepak takraw.