The main events by the morning: April 3

• The strongest earthquake in 25 years has occurred in Taiwan. It is estimated to have a magnitude of 7.5 points, followed by an aftershock of 6.6 points. A tsunami warning has been issued in Japan. According to preliminary data, the number of victims of the disaster has increased to 4 people, and the number of victims has reached 97.

• The United States warned Moscow in advance about the potential threat of an attack on Crocus City Hall two weeks before the terrorist attack. This was reported by the Washington Post.  Some American officials and experts believe that such provision of specific information to Russia about a possible target of a terrorist act is an unusual step by the United States. And it may put the disclosure of intelligence sources at risk.

• The market for pirated video services in Russia grew by 11%, reaching a volume of 3.36 billion rubles. Experts from J'son & Partners Consulting note that the main reason for this growth is the devaluation of the ruble. However, in dollar terms, the market declined by 13.3%. Lostfilm remains the leader among illegal resources.

• The tax Service has accused the «Auchan» hypermarket chain of tax evasion. According to the results of an audit conducted by the Federal Tax Service in 2023, the Russian subsidiary of the French retailer revealed a «tax risk» in the amount of 180.9 million rubles. If a new tax audit confirms violations, this amount may be additionally accrued to tax obligations.

• NATO is considering the creation of a five-year aid package for Ukraine worth $100 billion. To do this, it is planned to create a special fund, to which 32 members of the alliance will contribute their funds. This will help protect Ukraine from the «winds of political change and provide it with the necessary support.»

• The United States lifted anti-Russian sanctions against VTB subsidiaries: VTB Bank Europe, VTB Dank Deutschland and Ost-West Handelsbank.