Tsunami
1| Japan struck by giant earthquake
The details: Over 1,000 people in Japan have been killed as a result of a deadly 8.9 earthquake. More than 8,000 troops and 300 aircraft have been mobilized by the Japanese government to evacuate those stranded.
Tough summer ahead
2| Gen. Petraeus warns of worse fighting
The details: The top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan, Gen. David Petraeus, warned fighting could be much worse this summer than last. He will present President Obama with several plans for troop reduction beginning in July.
Ensign to retire
3| Senator won’t run in 2012
The details: Sen. John Ensign, D-Nev., whose affair with a staffer has muddied his image since 2009, announced his retirement, deciding against seeking a third term in 2012. Favored GOP candidate, Rep. Dean Heller, is considering a run for the opening seat.
Capitol cage fight
4| Senators reject Republican budget plan
The details: In a 58-44 vote, the Senate defeated a Republican budget proposal cutting $57 billion through the remainder of the fiscal year,. The GOP bill received more votes than the Democratic plan, which cuts only $4.7 billion.
Unrest continues
5| Gadhafi forces strike oil facilities
The details: An oil pipeline and an oil storage facility were struck by forces loyal to Gadhafi, Wednesday, as the Libyan leader fights to keep rebels from moving on the capital, Tripoli. State television claimed Gadhafi’s forces had retaken a city near Tripoli, from opposition fighters.
