Fire at North Macedonia Nightclub Kills 51, Injures Over 100

A catastrophic fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, claimed the lives of 51 individuals and injured over 100 during a concert early Sunday. The blaze, triggered by pyrotechnic devices, rapidly engulfed the venue, leading to scenes of chaos and desperation as concertgoers attempted to escape. Health Minister Arben Taravari confirmed that many of the injured are suffering from severe burns, with hospitals in Kocani, Stip, and Skopje treating the victims. Authorities have arrested several individuals, including concert organizers, as investigations into safety protocols commence. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy, describing the loss of young lives as immeasurable. The incident marks one of the deadliest disasters in North Macedonia's history, prompting condolences from regional leaders and offers of assistance from neighboring countries.