Colombia earthquake kills 160 as Russia bans Jabloko party

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake has struck Colombia, primarily affecting the cities of Cali and Pereira, as well as the Risaralda region. The disaster has resulted in more than 160 deaths, with at least 2,000 people still missing. The epicenter was located in the remote Chocó region, where rescue efforts are complicated by the fact that many locations are only accessible by air or boat.

In response, Vice President Abelardo de la Espriella has declared a nationwide state of emergency to mobilize resources for relief and rescue operations. International entities, including the United Nations and the European Union, have offered assistance to the Colombian government.

In Russia, the Supreme Court has barred the liberal opposition party Jabloko from participating in the upcoming parliamentary elections in September. The decision follows a legal challenge by the pro-Kremlin Rodina party, which alleged violations of election laws and illegal foreign funding. Jabloko, which campaigned under the slogan ‘For Peace and Freedom’ and opposed the war in Ukraine, has rejected these allegations and intends to appeal the ruling.